Browns’ Denzel Ward Not Bound For Injured Reserve

There does appear to be some level of concern regarding the health of Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward.

Ward’s shoulder injury could result in missing more than just this Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos, but that does not necessarily mean he is heading to injured reserve, according to reports. While missing any time is not optimal, being able to come back sooner rather than later will help Cleveland’s effort to make a playoff push.

The concern for the Browns’ secondary is less about the matchup in Denver and more about next week’s visit to Los Angeles to take on the Rams. Russell Wilson has been inconsistent this year, throwing for fewer than 200 yards in more than half of his games this season. Cleveland’s defense should be able to care of business against Mr. No-Longer-Unlimited. It is the following week against Matthew Stafford, which could prove problematic.

Even though Stafford’s completion percentage sits below 60% on the year, he is still someone capable of playing at a high level at any moment. It is that possibility, combined with the presence of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, that the Browns should be concerned with.

It is about playing the long game and the schedule for the Browns at the current moment. Cleveland has a shot at making the playoffs, but only if their defense is as close to 100% as possible. The Browns need their defense to continue playing at a shutdown level, and that is not possible if Ward were to miss an extended period. It is better for Ward to miss time now and be available later rather than attempt to play through an injury unnecessarily and risk further harm.