Denzel Ward Signs $62.2M Browns Extension to Become the Highest-Paid DB

FootballAugust 15, 2026

The Cleveland Browns have rewarded one of the league’s most consistent cornerbacks with a historic contract. Denzel Ward has agreed to a two-year, $62.2 million extension, making him the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history based on average annual salary.

The deal highlights Ward’s long-term value to Cleveland and secures one of the franchise’s key defensive leaders for the coming seasons.

According to a person familiar with the agreement who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the contract had not yet been officially announced, Ward’s extension is worth $62.2 million. The agreement includes $52.3 million in guaranteed money and carries an average annual value of $31.1 million.

That average moves Ward ahead of Trent McDuffie. McDuffie signed a four-year, $124 million contract with the Los Angeles Rams after being traded by Kansas City in March. His deal averages $31 million per season.

A Cornerstone of Cleveland’s Defense

Instagram | @denzelward | Ward has proven himself as a top NFL corner since 2018, racking up 104 passes defended and 18 career interceptions.

Ward, 29, still had two years left on the five-year, $100 million contract he signed with Cleveland in 2022. The new extension strengthens the Browns’ commitment to one of the team’s most dependable defenders.

A native of Macedonia, Ohio, less than an hour from Cleveland, Ward has deep ties to the area. Selected fourth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, he is now the Browns’ longest-tenured player after reigning AP Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett was traded to the Rams in June.

Since entering the NFL in 2018, Ward has established himself among the league’s top defensive backs. He leads all players with 104 passes defended during that span and has recorded 18 interceptions, tying him for 19th among active defenders. Last season, Ward appeared in 15 games, finished with 39 tackles, and intercepted one pass.

Ward’s new contract reflects his consistent performance and value to Cleveland’s defense. The record-setting extension rewards years of reliable play. It also ensures the Browns will keep one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks for the foreseeable future.