Cornerback Denzel Ward told reporters at his first celebrity softball outing that he wants to stay in Cleveland despite the offseason shock of trading defensive end Myles Garrett to Los Angeles. Ward emphasized the team’s identity as “Ohio against the world” and dismissed doubts about the roster’s competitiveness after losing a two‑time Defensive Player of the Year, in the AFC North.

The deal sent Garrett, a two‑time Defensive Player of the Year, to the Rams for Pro Bowl edge rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first‑round pick, a 2028 second‑rounder and a conditional 2029 third‑rounder. Ward, the No. 4 overall pick in 2018 and a five‑time Pro Bowler, now becomes the longest‑tenured Brown, with two contract years left but no guaranteed salary on his $100 million extension through.

General manager Andrew Berry confirmed the organization will not entertain offers for Ward, calling him a “big part of the team” who continues to play at a high level. With the defensive line reshaped, Ward’s commitment signals stability for Cleveland’s secondary as the Browns chase a playoff berth in a division where every win matters this season.