Denzel Ward should take note of Myles Garrett’s contract situation with the Cleveland Browns. The star defensive end’s deal, signed in 2022, has become a financial burden for the team, and Ward risks making the same mistake as he nears free agency.
What went wrong with Myles Garrett’s contract?
Myles Garrett signed a five-year, $125 million extension with the Browns in 2022, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the NFL. However, the contract’s structure—heavy in guaranteed money and high cap hits—has limited Cleveland’s flexibility in roster construction. With Garrett’s cap hit ballooning to over $30 million in 2026, the Browns face tough decisions about retaining other key players.
Why should Denzel Ward avoid a similar deal?
Ward, a Pro Bowl cornerback, is entering the final year of his current contract. If he follows Garrett’s path and signs a long-term, high-guarantee deal, he could handcuff the Browns’ front office. Cleveland’s defense thrives on depth, and tying up too much cap space in one player—even a star like Ward—could weaken the unit as a whole.
What’s next for the Browns’ defense?
The Browns must balance rewarding their top talent with maintaining a competitive roster. If Ward demands a Garrett-like contract, general manager Andrew Berry may need to explore trade options or restructure deals to keep the defense intact. For now, Ward’s focus should be on proving his worth on the field while avoiding the financial pitfalls that have complicated Garrett’s tenure in Cleveland.