Cleveland Browns star cornerback, who signed a $100 million contract, is reportedly questioning his future with the team following Myles Garrett’s trade request. According to multiple reports, Ward is considering his options if the Browns move forward with trading Garrett—a move that wouldn’t be surprising given the franchise’s current struggles. Drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Ward could be the next Browns player to request a trade after spending his entire career in Cleveland.
While Ward has expressed a desire to remain with the Browns, he made it clear that his commitment hinges on the team’s ability to stay competitive. If Cleveland continues to falter, he may seek opportunities elsewhere.
Ward was already the subject of trade rumors leading up to the 2024 season’s deadline, with speculation that the Browns might put the four-time Pro Bowler on the trade block. Given Garrett’s desire to win, it’s reasonable to assume Ward shares the same sentiment, especially since he’s referred to them as a tandem. Interestingly, Ward reportedly knew about Garrett’s trade request in advance, suggesting this could have been part of a broader plan.
Though Ward is under contract through 2027, the current trajectory of the Browns’ roster may not align with his long-term goals. If he does request a trade, there would likely be significant interest around the league, with teams like the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers potentially emerging as suitors. The Browns could capitalize on this by acquiring valuable draft picks in return.
Browns $100 Million Star Denzel Ward Questioning Future – May Join Saints, Panthers in Trade
Shoring up the Saints
The New Orleans Saints entered the 2024 season with high hopes despite a thin wide receiver corps for quarterback Derek Carr. However, after just two games, the offense struggled to find its rhythm, leading to the dismissal of head coach Dennis Allen. With the offense’s future uncertain and star wideout Chris Olave unlikely to return, the Saints may also need to address concerns in their defensive secondary.
Veteran cornerback Marshon Lattimore was traded to the Washington Commanders last year, and Paulson Adebo could be wearing a different uniform in 2025. While General Manager Mickey Loomis isn’t typically one to embrace a full rebuild, acquiring Denzel Ward might be necessary to restore confidence in the secondary. With young corner Kool-Aid McKinstry still developing, Ward’s presence could alleviate some of the pressure and provide immediate stability.
Although trading for Ward would require a significant financial commitment, it could be a worthwhile investment. The Saints are expected to release several high-salary veterans this offseason, including Tyrann Mathieu and defensive lineman Cameron Jordan, which would create the cap space needed to pursue a player of Ward’s caliber.
Rebuilding Carolina
With the offense starting to click for quarterback Bryce Young, the Carolina Panthers finally have some promising playmakers in wide receivers Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette. However, the team made minimal upgrades to the secondary last offseason, adding only a few practice squad players. Head coach Dave Canales must recognize that while the offense is showing growth, the same level of attention is needed on the defensive side of the ball.
Cornerback Mike Jackson could be in line for a new contract, whether with the Panthers or elsewhere, while Jaycee Horn is expected to return. Regardless of how things unfold, pairing Horn with Jackson and potentially adding Denzel Ward would significantly strengthen the Panthers’ secondary. This combination could create a formidable unit capable of consistently disrupting opposing offenses and putting the defense on a healthier, more competitive trajectory.