Denzel Ward is the definition of an Ohio born-and-raised football player.
The Browns’ rookie cornerback grew up in Northeast Ohio, starred at Nordonia High School in Macedonia, accepted a scholarship to Ohio State and became one of the Buckeyes’ best players.
Now, Ward -- the fourth overall pick in the NFL Draft -- is tasked with helping turn his hometown team around in what’s considered a pivotal moment in franchise history. If there’s any sort of external pressure that comes along with that taking up that mantle, he remains unfazed.
“Playing college football at Ohio State, you’re viewed by everyone around the world.