The NFL has seen a flurry of major contract extensions, blockbuster trades, and stunning moves this offseason. Among the biggest was the Cleveland Browns’ decision to trade Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, just one year after Garrett requested a trade before ultimately accepting a massive contract extension. Now, another Browns defensive star is due for a new deal, and Denzel Ward would be wise to avoid the same mistake Garrett made in 2025.

A recent ESPN report indicated that Ward could soon land a lucrative new contract. Although the Browns traded Garrett, both the organization and Ward remain committed to keeping him in Cleveland through the remainder of his current deal.

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“Although the Browns traded Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, general manager Andrew Berry said he wants to keep Ward, and the five-time Pro Bowler also expressed his commitment to Cleveland. Ward has two years remaining on a five-year extension he signed in 2022 but no more guaranteed salary. Ward didn’t participate in mandatory minicamp — coach Todd Monken said he won’t comment on the nature of the cornerback’s absence — but a new deal that offers additional guarantees could be on the horizon.” Daniel Oyefusi reported.

Don’t do it!

Ward appears set to remain a Cleveland Brown for at least the next two seasons. Beyond that, however, he shouldn’t commit to the franchise. Garrett’s biggest mistake was buying into Berry’s effort to convince him to stay.

If Ward hopes to compete for a championship one day, he should wait until 2028 and take control of his own future. That said, it’s understandable if he wants to maximize his earnings with one more significant contract.

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Garrett ultimately learned a harsh reality: Cleveland isn’t close to competing. The money also didn’t outweigh his desire to win the way he may have expected. After recording five sacks against the New England Patriots, Garrett was visibly frustrated.

The Browns were getting blown out in Foxborough by the eventual AFC champions. Now, Cleveland has draft capital but no clear direction. That’s a recipe for disaster.

If Ward wants a realistic shot at winning a Super Bowl, as Garrett now has with the Rams, he should learn from his former teammate’s experience. Ward should decline any extension offers and either wait for the Browns to trade him to a contender or reach free agency in 2028 and choose one himself.