Denzel Ward’s return to the Cleveland Browns’ lineup for the season opener brings some much-needed reassurance to their defense. Ward, who suffered a concussion in a preseason game with the Chiefs, was unable to practice until now. However, his return means that the defense will be at full strength when they face the Cincinnati Bengals on September 10.
The Browns will need Ward’s presence on the field as they prepare to face the Bengals’ high-octane offense, which boasts talented wide receivers such as Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd. Chase and Higgins each recorded over 1,000 receiving yards last season, and the trio combined for 21 touchdown catches in 2022.
Ward’s absence was felt by the Browns last year when they faced the Bengals. He was in concussion protocol during their Halloween night matchup, which the Browns won 32-13. In their second meeting in December, which the Bengals won 23-10, Ward made three tackles and broke up two passes.
Ward isn’t the only player returning to the Browns’ defense for the opener. Team captain Anthony Walker, who missed the entire preseason due to a quadriceps tendon tear, will also be back. Walker, the starting middle linebacker, warns against underestimating the Bengals’ running back Joe Mixon, despite the flashy wide receivers they possess.
The Bengals have made some changes in their run offense, signing left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. and moving Jonah Williams to right tackle. Walker acknowledges the importance of stopping the run game and being aware of their gaps and assignments on defense.
Although Walker has not played in a game for almost a year, he is not concerned about his performance. He has been able to practice and believes that once he makes his first tackle in the Bengals game, he will be back in the rhythm of playing.
In the injury report, several Browns players were limited in practice, including Ward, who is progressing through the concussion protocol. Meanwhile, the Bengals’ defensive end Joseph Ossai did not practice, and quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Tyler Boyd had full participation, despite some minor injuries.
As the Browns gear up for their season opener against the Bengals, the return of key defensive players like Denzel Ward and Anthony Walker adds strength and depth to their lineup. With the Bengals’ potent offensive weapons, the Browns will rely on these defensive standouts to help secure a victory and start the season on a high note.
Overall, the Browns’ defense at full strength brings optimism and confidence for their season opener, as they prepare to face a formidable opponent in the defending AFC North champions.
