As NFL free agency approaches, the buzz is all about which players might be hitting the open market. While some analysts aren't too impressed with this year's class, there's always a chance for surprises as teams maneuver to free up cap space.
Case in point: the Miami Dolphins recently released several veterans, including All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill and former Pro Bowl edge rusher Bradley Chubb. This kind of shake-up is exactly what teams like the Washington Commanders are watching closely, as they hunt for talent to bolster their roster.
One name that's turning heads is Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward. Why would the Browns consider parting ways with a five-time Pro Bowler boasting 18 career interceptions?
It boils down to finances. Ward's hefty $32.9 million cap hit is second only to Deshaun Watson's on the Browns' payroll.
With Cleveland needing to make significant improvements across the board, shedding some salary might be necessary.
Ward has been a cornerstone of the Browns' secondary since being drafted fourth overall in 2018. Over eight seasons, he's become synonymous with their defense, racking up 104 passes defensed - the most by any Brown since 1991.
At 29, he may not be at his peak, but he's far from done. The Browns could save a significant $20 million by designating him as a post-June 1 cut, which might be tempting as they aim to climb out of the AFC North basement under new head coach Todd Monken.
Of course, the Browns could opt to restructure Ward's contract to keep him in Cleveland. Ward's roots run deep in Ohio, having grown up there and played college ball at Ohio State. But with a new coaching staff and a pressing need for cap space, the future is uncertain.
If Ward becomes available, he'd be a prime target for the Washington Commanders. With Marshon Lattimore on his way out, Washington needs to fill a gap in their secondary. Ward's stats from last season - 15 games, 39 tackles, nine passes defensed, and one interception - show he's still a force to be reckoned with, despite a dip in his Pro Football Focus grade.
At 28, turning 29 in April, Ward isn't just another veteran past his prime. He remains one of the league's top cornerbacks, and if the Browns can't find a way to keep him, he'll likely have plenty of teams vying for his services. Plus, signing a player released by another team won't affect compensatory picks, making Ward an even more attractive option.
Will Cleveland actually cut Ward? It's a tough call.
But if they do, Washington's GM Adam Peters should be ready to make a move. Ward would instantly become the best free-agent cornerback on the market, and a key asset for any team looking to strengthen their defense.