It appears that Cleveland Browns’ defense is losing its key players on a weekly basis.
After COVID-19 put out of action star pass rusher Myles Garrett for at least two games, the Browns are now reportedly also losing Pro Bowl corner, Denzel Ward. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Ward is dealing with a calf sprain and is set to miss “multiple weeks.”
The news comes as a surprise, especially considering the fact that the 23-year-old Ward played every snap in Sunday’s win over the Philadelphia Eagles. He put in a great performance, intercepting Carson Wentz while also adding four passes defended, three tackles, and one QB hit.
The following morning, Ward approached Cleveland’s medical staff to complain about his calf and underwent an MRI test that showed the strain.
Denzel Ward, who was Browns’ No.4 pick in the 2017 draft, started all 10 games in 2020. He leads the league in passes defended with 15 while also having 38 tackles, two interceptions, and three fumble recoveries.
In Ward’s absence, Browns are likely to turn to offseason acquisitions M.J. Stewart Jr. and Kevin Johnson. Stewart has 10 tackles and a sack this season, while Johnson contributed with 25 tackles and one pass deflection.
