Cleveland Browns: 3 X-Factors for the 2018 NFL Season

Cleveland Browns
Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Denzel Ward, Cornerback

To say the selection of Ward was a surprise would be the understatement of the year. With Bradley Chubb still on the board, many felt that adding another edge rusher opposite Myles Garrett would have been the smart play. But the Browns were looking at the bigger picture and felt they needed someone on the backend to help against the receivers in the AFC North.

Last season, the Cleveland Browns secondary surrendered 230 yards per game while giving up 28 touchdowns through the air. But the glaring hole was the lack of interceptions. In 16 games, the Browns’ secondary totaled just seven on the season. This is why the Browns went after Ward.

If the Browns are to crawl out of the basement, they will need to find a way to stop Antonio Brown and A.J. Green. Ward, just a rookie, will be thrown into the fire quickly and will have to prove his worth against two of the top receivers two times a season. What Ward’s presence also does is allow players like Garrett time to get to the quarterback.

Adding Chubb may have provided the Browns more sacks, but being able to shut down at least one side of the field with Ward will give the defense that much-needed confidence they’ve lacked.

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