Ward backs staying with Browns after Garrett trade

Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward has publicly affirmed his desire to remain with the team following the franchise’s surprising trade of star defensive end Myles Garrett. Ward made his comments to reporters on Saturday while hosting a celebrity softball game.

The Browns traded Garrett, a cornerstone of their defense, to the Los Angeles Rams earlier this week in exchange for edge rusher Jared Verse and multiple future draft picks. The move sent shockwaves through the NFL and immediately raised questions about the future of other veteran players, including Ward.

Addressing the situation directly, Ward stated he definitely still wants to be in Cleveland. He called Garrett a good friend and a great teammate but emphasized that the team’s goals remain unchanged. Ward described the team’s mentality as "Ohio against the world," adding that while people may doubt them, the team is focused on playing its best and winning games for the city.

He characterized the Garrett trade as crazy, noting that it demonstrates the nature of the professional football business. Ward, who was the fourth overall pick by the Browns in the 2018 NFL Draft, is now the longest-tenured player on the roster...