3 players Browns should extend with Baker Mayfield’s money

1. Denzel Ward

Ward is perhaps the forgotten man in terms of the Browns’ 2018 draft, given all the predictable focus on Mayfield, but he has developed into an integral player for the defense having quickly blossomed into a bonafide top-tier starting cornerback on the outside.

His ball skills were questioned going into the 2018 draft, but Ward has proven he can take the ball away, registering seven interceptions in three seasons.

Throughout his NFL career, Ward has shown himself to be a stingy corner who does not consistently give up significant yardage. Indeed, he led all Browns corners by allowing only 5.9 yards per target in 2020, according to PFR, the second time in his career he has given up fewer than 6 yards per target – Ward conceded 5.6 as a rookie in 2018.

Additionally, Ward was the top Browns corner when it came to passer rating allowed. The passer rating for opposing quarterbacks when he was targeted was 78.3.

The sticky coverage skills that Ward displayed during his Ohio State career have translated excellently to the NFL level. While doubts remain over Mayfield’s standing among his peers at the quarterback position, there is no doubting Ward is already one of the better outside corners in the NFL and he deserves to be paid as such before the Browns come to terms with Mayfield.