The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to make a leap this season, as they've been eliminated in the Wild Card Round in each of the last two postseasons. While they've made additions to both sides of the ball, cornerback remains a spot where they could make a massive move.
Cam Hart, Donte Jackson, and Tarheeb Still are currently the starting trio at cornerback for the Chargers, but the future at the position is up in the air. Which is why Los Angeles should make a big swing and trade for Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward.
Chargers should go all in on this Pro Bowl defensive upgrade
Jackson is set to become a free agent after the season. Meanwhile, Hart and Still will both be looking for extensions as well. A year from now, the cornerback room could be massively different, but the idea of acquiring Ward should be something Los Angeles seriously considers.
Earlier in the offseason, Cleveland traded Myles Garrett, which means anyone on that roster can be had for the right price. And while the Browns aren't shopping Ward, they would move him for the right price.
The Athletic's Zac Jackson revealed that in the past, Ward made it a priority to have perfect attendance all throughout the offseason but that wasn't the case this spring.
"In previous seasons, Ward was big on having perfect attendance at every offseason workout, practice and team activity — even the voluntary ones. This season, he wasn’t seen on the practice field until mandatory minicamp and only participated on a limited basis. The Garrett trade didn’t happen until the offseason program was nearly over, so interpret that accordingly. Ward has to know his football future is uncertain, and the Browns have to listen if another team brings a serious offer."
Ward's actions here, in addition to wanting a new deal, could be a factor in why he would be moved, and the Chargers should pounce.
Ward is a true CB1 and would dynamically improve Los Angeles's secondary. He's a five-time Pro Bowler and has lived up to being the 4th overall pick.
In 110 career games (107 starts), Ward has logged 361 total tackles, 104 pass deflections, 18 interceptions, and four forced fumbles. The Ohio State product has finished with 10-plus pass breakups and two-plus interceptions in seven of his eight seasons.
It shows he will get his hands on the team, which is what you want from your top corner. And he's managed to do that while going up against the opposing team's best receiver. Having the caliber of player that Ward is in Los Angeles' secondary could be a game changer and give them another difference maker as they seek to make a Super Bowl run.
Ward is on the books for two more seasons, but he's looking for an extension. But the Chargers have $64 million in cap space in 2027, with that number rising in the following seasons per Spotrac. They have the money needed to get something done, along with the draft capital to compensate the Browns.
Getting a Pro Bowler like Ward in the mix would only improve the Chargers and should be a trade they push for before the season starts in September.
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