Cleveland Browns: Studs and duds following the comeback over the Jets
By Dan Justik
Stud: Denzel Ward
The Browns defense has been the obvious bright spot for the team in the first three weeks of the season, showing that they have the potential to be one of the best units in the NFL.
A big part of that is how well the secondary has played, led by fourth overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft, Denzel Ward. Thursday night was no exception, as the rookie cornerback continued his strong start to the season.
Ward tallied four tackles on Thursday, including one tackle for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
The Browns secondary has excelled at stripping the ball from a ball-carriers grip, and Ward was the next player in the Browns secondary to force a fumble. But before Ward forced the fumble, he read a screen pass beautifully, knifing through the Jets blockers to make a big tackle for loss.
No matter who he goes up against, opposing quarterbacks have trouble completing passes when they throw it in Ward’s direction. And not only does Ward lock down opposing receivers, but he also is an excellent tackler.
With how well he has played early in the season, Ward is showing the potential to be the NFL’s next great shutdown corner. But his tackling skills are what set him apart from other cornerbacks, and gives Browns fans a lot to be excited about.