Browns' Cornerback Denzel Ward Looks to Continue His Career Year

Denzel Ward is off to an amazing start through eight games this year. He has elevated his game and is proving that he is a top cornerback in the NFL.

The Warden, as Browns fans have dubbed sixth-year man Denzel Ward, is having an incredible start to his season. The addition of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has unlocked another level in Ward's game and he is proving it week after week.

The former Nordonia Knight and Ohio State Buckeye has spent his football playing career on I-71. He really has seemed to find a home with the Browns, and Browns fans everywhere sure love having him.

Nov 5, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward (21) celebrates his broken up pass intended for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marquise Brown (2) during the third quarter at Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Through eight games this season Ward is on pace to shatter his career highs. He notched career highs in interceptions in his rookie year and 2021 where he snatched three passes. In 2020 he set his career mark for PBUs with 18 deflections.

So far in 2023, he has looked like a totally different player, one that is thriving under new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. On Thursday, Ward met with the media and was asked about his hot start to the year. He answered,

"I take a lot of pride in my game. That’s our goal in trying to be the best. So, I’m just trying to stay focused on one game at a time and focus on getting a win and that’s really where my focus is at"

This mindset has led Ward to already have nine pass breakups, two interceptions and even one forced fumble. The most impressive stat to this point is that he is holding opposing quarterbacks to a 24.2 passer rating when he is matched up in single coverage. 

If No. 21 can stay healthy he is on pace to have a career year. Until then he is focused on doing his job, winning games, and leading this defense back to the playoffs.