The Cleveland Browns have been making some big moves this offseason, and it looks like they’re not done yet. After signing star cornerback Denzel Ward to a lucrative contract extension, the Browns may use his contract to continue adding firepower to their already impressive offense in free agency.
Ward, who was selected fourth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, has quickly become one of the top cornerbacks in the league. In just three seasons, he has recorded 157 tackles, seven interceptions, and 40 pass deflections. His speed, agility, and coverage skills have made him a valuable asset to the Browns’ defense, and now they have made sure to keep him in Cleveland for the long haul.
The 23-year-old’s new contract is worth a reported $105 million over four years, making him one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the NFL. But what does this mean for the Browns’ offense? Well, it could mean even more weapons for quarterback Baker Mayfield and the rest of the offense to work with.
With Ward’s contract now locked in, the Browns have a clearer picture of their salary cap situation and can make more strategic moves in free agency. They have already made some notable signings, including former Rams safety John Johnson III and former Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley. But with more cap space available, they could target some big names on the offensive side of the ball.
One player that has been linked to the Browns is star wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. The 24-year-old is coming off a 2020 season where he recorded 97 catches for 831 yards and nine touchdowns for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He would be a great addition to the Browns’ receiving corps, which already includes Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry.
Another potential target for the Browns is former Pro Bowl running back Todd Gurley. The 26-year-old was released by the Atlanta Falcons and is looking for a new team. Gurley has had some injury concerns in recent years, but when healthy, he is one of the most dynamic running backs in the league. Pairing him with Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt would give the Browns a formidable trio in the backfield.
But why stop there? The Browns could also look to bolster their offensive line by signing veteran tackle Mitchell Schwartz. The 31-year-old was recently released by the Kansas City Chiefs and would bring a wealth of experience and talent to the Browns’ O-line.
Adding these playmakers to an offense that already features Mayfield, Chubb, Hunt, Beckham, and Landry would make the Browns a force to be reckoned with in the AFC. They showed flashes of their potential last season, making it to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. But with these new additions, they could become a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
It’s clear that the Browns are committed to building a winning team, and they are not afraid to spend money to do so. Ward’s contract extension is just the latest example of their dedication to creating a championship-caliber roster. And with the upcoming NFL Draft, they have even more opportunities to add young talent to their team.
The future is bright for the Cleveland Browns, and fans should be excited about the possibilities. The team’s front office is making all the right moves, and it’s clear that they have their sights set on bringing a Super Bowl trophy to Cleveland. So let’s trust in their plan and continue to support our beloved Browns as they continue to rise to the top.
