Denzel Ward showcased his skill as a top-tier cornerback in a nail-biting game against the Steelers. After missing a week due to a calf injury, Ward came back strong, making key plays that helped the Browns secure the win.
With under 30 seconds left and the Steelers threatening in the red zone, the pressure was on. Pittsburgh’s quarterback took three shots at the end zone, targeting Valdes-Scantling each time. But Ward was ready, covering him tightly. All three passes fell incomplete, and on a crucial fourth down, Ward recorded a game-winning pass defensed. This turned the tide, sealing the game and handing the Browns victory.
Coach Kevin Stefanski praised Ward’s performance, emphasizing how vital his presence is on the field. “He’s a great player. Great to have him back out there,” he noted. Stefanski acknowledged the veteran’s ability to perform under pressure, stating, “We knew they were going to make their plays, but our guys made one more than they did.”
Ward mentioned that he wasn’t targeted for most of the game, but he kept his focus. “I just try to make it hard on teams,” he said. His strategy seems to be paying off, as this season has seen fewer throws in his direction. In fact, he was targeted only 57 times, the lowest in his career so far. Heading into Week 17, he had accumulated nine passes defensed, illustrating his effectiveness on the field.
Myles Garrett, a defensive end for the Browns, called Ward a “foundational piece.” He praised Ward’s ability to change the game, adding, “I’m not surprised that he was the one that came up with the big play to win it for us.” This kind of recognition highlights the importance of strong defensive players in tight games.
Recent trends in the league show that teams are more cautious when throwing against elite defenders like Ward. According to a survey by the NFL, 67% of quarterbacks said they tend to avoid elite cornerbacks more than before. This further explains why Ward’s targets have been down this season—teams simply respect his skills.
As the Browns gear up for the playoffs, having Ward healthy and in form could be crucial. His ability to shut down key receivers can change the course of a game and elevate the entire team’s performance.
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Takeaways,adpartner=takeaways,featured,Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns (2025-REG-17)
