6. Denzel Ward, Cleveland Browns
The Browns have had more than their share of first-round busts in recent years (especially in 2012, when they blew it on both Trent Richardson and Brandon Weeden, and 2014, when they blew it on both Johnny Manziel and Justin Gilbert), but the fourth overall selection of Ohio State’s Denzel Ward in 2018 has been one of the league’s better choices. Cornerback is generally a position that requires an adjustment period when one goes from college to the NFL, but Ward hit the ground running, and he’s never stopped. Ward gave up a few big plays in his rookie campaign, but proved mature beyond his years on the field, and the 2019 season showed his further development. Last season, Ward allowed just 31 catches on 69 targets for 426 yards, 128 yards after the catch, one touchdown, two interceptions, and an opponent passer rating of 58.0. This despite hamstring injuries that cost him four games, and an ankle issue later in the season.
Ward has great technique and on-field acumen, but it’s his pure athleticism that sets him apart — it allows him to make an exceedingly difficult position look embarrassingly easy at times. If there’s one young cornerback I’d say could be at the top of this list in a year or two, it’s Ward.
Being a cornerback in the NFL is hard. Denzel Ward makes it look easy — in part because he can backpedal as fast as most guys run forward. Could be the NFL's best CB before too long. pic.twitter.com/avro3qZKX0
— Doug Farrar (@NFL_DougFarrar) July 13, 2020