Ward had been suffering with a shoulder ailment but had been a full participant in the first two practices of the week. During Thursday’s practice, he sustained another knee injury.
“Something with his knee, he was limited,” stated Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski on Thursday, January 11. “I don’t really have an update past that.”
Ward is one of the league’s greatest cornerbacks and was recently chosen to his third Pro Bowl. During the regular season, he appeared in 13 games and had 11 passes defensed and two interceptions.
Ward has been labeled as questionable for the Browns’ game against Houston. Cornerback Mike Ford Jr. (calf), running back Pierre Strong Jr. (back), and safety Juan Thornhill (calf) are all questionable for the postseason opener.
Denzel Ward is the Browns’ elite defensive leader.
The Browns are lucky to have two other capable cornerbacks in Greg Newsome II and Martin Emerson Jr. However, missing a leader like Ward for a playoff game would be difficult.
“A lot of emotions run through my mind,” Newsome explained. “He’s our leader, and he’s one of the league’s best cornerbacks.” So it’ll be difficult, but I know Denzel’s a soldier and a warrior, so if he’s able to go, he’ll be ready.”
Myles Garrett agreed with Newsome that Ward will be missed in the win-or-go-home game.
“I didn’t see it (the injury), but I was definitely disappointed,” Myles Garrett said. “He’s a person that came in with me very much. A playmaker with whom a few players in the league can (and should) compete. He’s been doing it at an alarming rate this year and during his stay here. We’re looking forward to having him back once he’s ready to be himself. It’s simply sad that anything like that occurs during practice while trying to prepare for a big game like this one on Saturday.”
The Browns will be up against star quarterback C.J. Stroud. He is the presumptive winner of Offensive Rookie of the Year. Stroud completed 4,108 passes for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. The Browns did not see him when they won 36-22 on Christmas Eve. Case Keenum took over for Stroud, who was out with a concussion.
Browns have ruled out Grant Delpit With a groin injury.
The Browns were hoped that safety Grant Delpit, who had been on injured reserve with a groin ailment, would be able to return this week. He did get on the practice field, but he won’t see action for at least another week.
Delpit is “just coming along, all part of the rehab process,” Stefanski said. “Getting out on the practice field and going through individual and team periods is part of that process.” But he’s on the right track and making excellent development.”
Dustin Hopkins, who injured his hamstring in Week 16, was also ruled out by Cleveland. Cedric Tillman, the Browns’ rookie wide receiver, will also be out after suffering a concussion in the season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals.
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