The Cleveland Browns are making headlines this offseason with a bold move that could reshape both their roster and future draft strategy. Star cornerback Denzel Ward, a four-time Pro Bowler, is headed to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for the 24th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and a sixth-rounder, according to insider reports.
Ward, who has been a cornerstone of the Browns’ defense since being drafted fourth overall in 2018, carries a hefty $24.5 million cap hit next season—the second-largest on the team behind quarterback Deshaun Watson. With Watson’s future uncertain after back-to-back Achilles injuries, and Cleveland holding the league’s highest payroll at $351 million, GM Andrew Berry had tough decisions to make.
Despite Ward’s stellar performance—49 tackles, 19 passes defended, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in 16 games—the Browns opted to free up cap space and secure valuable draft capital. Analysts believe this move gives Cleveland flexibility to either rebuild around young talent or gear up for a post-Watson future.
Meanwhile, the Vikings are in win-now mode. After a 14-win season and a near miss at the NFC’s top seed, Minnesota’s glaring weakness was their pass defense, ranked 28th in the league. Ward’s arrival immediately upgrades their secondary, filling a void left by free agents and providing a veteran presence under defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
This trade signals a strategic pivot for both franchises: the Browns are betting on long-term gains, while the Vikings are doubling down on their Super Bowl aspirations. Only time will tell who comes out on top in this high-stakes NFL chess match.
