With just weeks to go until training camp starts around the NFL, ranking season is in full effect. As we begin our preparations here at DBN with Cleveland Browns depth chart reviews, ESPN has started up its rankings of different positions, starting with RB Quinshon Judkins falling just outside of the Top 10 at the running back spot.
CB Denzel Ward has been a bit of the focus of rumors after the Browns traded away DE Myles Garrett. While GM Andrew Berry is not ready to have a fire sale and Ward plans
to stick around, rumors will likely swirl around the talented cornerback given Cleveland’s young roster.
As always, the national media is also interested in seeing talented players plucked from bad teams and added to bigger and/or better franchises. The same is true with Ward, who saw his ESPN survey ranking slip from third to seventh this year:
“If Ward played in Kansas City or New England, he’d be the talk of the NFL,” an NFL personnel evaluator said. “He doesn’t get the credit he should. Twitch or closing speed, there’s no one better. He closes faster than anyone I’ve ever seen. In coverage, that is a special trait.”
As the article notes, the voting was very close between the fourth-ranked corner (Devon Witherspoon) and Ward.
With the Browns, Ward has shown a knack for big plays, mirroring all different types of receivers, and making plays as a tackler. He’s also never played a full season; often, head-related injuries have caused him to miss a game or two, while impressing many around the league:
“You look back over the last decade and he’s been one of the most consistent corners in the league,” a veteran NFL defensive coach said. “He’s just always been a really gifted guy.”
As noted, Ward has never had a major injury that kept him off the field, playing 110 games in eight seasons, and continues to perform at a high level. Playing on a team that has won just eight games in two seasons seems to have taken a toll on his ranking around the league but not the respect he is shown.
Patrick Surtain was once again ranked as the top cornerback in the NFL. Cleveland’s other starting corner, Tyson Campbell, was in the “also received votes” category.
What do you think of Ward’s ranking? How does the statement about playing in KC or New England impact you as a Cleveland fan?
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