The Cleveland Browns appear to be running out of time to justify holding onto their most expensive defensive players, and Denzel Ward sits at the top of that list.
After another disappointing start to the 2025 season, the Browns are trending toward another year without a playoff berth, sitting near the bottom of the AFC North. With a 2-6 record and a tough remaining schedule, Cleveland’s front office may look to pivot and begin retooling for the future rather than chasing a slim postseason chance.
Ward’s name has surfaced in trade speculation for weeks due to both his contract and the Browns’ direction. He’s still performing at a high level, but with the team clearly in transition and major salary commitments to players like Myles Garrett, moving Ward could free up both cap space and draft capital.
Ward is one of the few defensive backs in the league with multiple Pro Bowl selections, elite man coverage skills, and the ability to shadow No. 1 receivers. However, the Browns’ defense hasn’t been enough to overcome the team’s offensive inconsistencies.
With playoff odds sitting under 5%, Cleveland’s front office could decide to start selling off veterans before the trade deadline. His production and reputation ensure a solid return, and the organization might view this as the last chance to maximize his trade value before age, injuries, or a full rebuild diminish it.
THIS IS A PREDICTION, NOT A REPORT.
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Denzel Ward to the Rams: Potential Trade Idea
Cleveland Browns receive: 2026 second-round pick
Los Angeles Rams receive: Cornerback Denzel Ward
Why the Browns Benefit
Ward has been a Pro Bowl presence and long-time starter for Cleveland. His career to date: selected 4th overall in the 2018 draft.
In 2024, he recorded 49 combined tackles (41 solo), two interceptions, and a career-high 19 pass breakups while qualifying for his fourth Pro Bowl. In the 2025 season so far (through eight games), he’s tallied 25 total tackles, one interception and five passes defended.
But for Cleveland, the concern is more about the team’s trajectory than Ward’s talent. Analytics models place Cleveland’s playoff odds at roughly 3.6% this season.
With a 2-6 start and slim chances of contending, the Browns might view selling their top veteran assets as the prudent move. As one report notes, Cleveland “could make another trade … packaging either a few draft picks or a veteran player to acquire a player who is under contract for a few more seasons.”
By dealing Ward now, the Browns would: Gain a valuable draft asset (a 2nd-round pick) to help retool. Free up focus and potentially cap flexibility (given Ward’s contract) to address other needs. Avoid the risk of his value declining if the team continues to struggle or shifts to a rebuild.
Even if a second-round pick looks modest for a player of Ward’s caliber, it may reflect a realistic market adjustment given Cleveland’s status.
What the Rams Gain
For the Rams, acquiring Ward offers an opportunity to upgrade a key position on defense. Los Angeles has been linked to adding a top-tier cornerback, and Ward fits that bill. He brings:
Proven performance at a premium position (cornerback) which is notoriously hard to fill. Experience in significant defensive snaps—productive across multiple seasons.
An immediate impact in coverage for a team that views itself as in contention now. In a deal for merely a 2nd-round pick, the Rams would be getting high-level value relative to the draft cost. This could be the sharp strategic play that elevates their defense without sacrificing their future significantly.
The Bigger Picture
From Cleveland’s vantage point, this move signals a subtle but real shift: acknowledging that their current window might be closed and that a reset is due. While trading a veteran of Ward’s quality will sting for fans, it might be the smarter long-term play.
For the Rams, making a move like this suggests urgency. They are aiming to maximise a win-window and bolster weak spots. Addressing cornerback via a trade for Ward could be the meaningful step they need.
If executed, this trade could reshape both franchises: Cleveland resetting its roster and Los Angeles upgrading for contention.
