Denzel Ward just became the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 24-year-old corner signed a five-year, $100.5 million contract with the Cleveland Browns, which includes $71.25 million guaranteed.
The deal surpasses Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey’s deal, which was for five years, $100 million and $70.203 million guaranteed.
Ward, a Cleveland native who played at Ohio State, tweeted about the record deal, thanking the Haslams and Browns organization.
The Browns had selected Ward fourth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft — just three spots after taking Baker Mayfield with the No. 1 overall pick.
While Mayfield appears to be on his way out, Ward has been a central figure in the Browns defense when healthy.
He is coming off his second Pro Bowl season in which he finished with three interceptions, including one for a 99-yard touchdown, with 10 pass deflections and 43 tackles.
Through four seasons, Ward has 10 interceptions, 50 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, half a sack, 186 tackles, including eight for a loss.
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