Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward is taking a proactive approach to the upcoming season, starting with fostering the right mindset among his teammates. From the first day of training camp, Ward has emphasized the team’s focus on creating a deliberate and intentional environment at their facility.
A key part of this effort is Ward’s personal commitment to improving his hands and generating more takeaways. After a season in which the Browns recorded only four team interceptions, Ward acknowledged his own missed opportunities and has been diligently using a JUGS machine to ensure he capitalizes on future chances.
Ward’s leadership and work ethic are qualities that impressed defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz even before he joined the team in 2023. Schwartz, a veteran NFL coach, had heard high praise from Ward’s former coaches and had long admired the cornerback’s craft from afar. Now entering his second season overseeing the defense, Schwartz fully appreciates Ward’s value.
“The thing I like about Denzel is how consistent he is with his preparation – he never phones in a performance,” Schwartz said. He also noted Ward’s current focus on evolving his game. “He’s making a big effort this year to be more physical. He’s such a great shadow guy, and he’s working a little bit more now, being a little more physical at the line of scrimmage, giving us a bit more run support and sort of rounding out some other parts of the game.”
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