Denzel Ward remains passionate about playing football despite its risks.
Cleveland’s three-time Pro Bowl cornerback said on Thursday that he did not think about retiring two weeks ago when he had at least his fifth documented concussion since being drafted by the Browns in 2018.
Ward returned to practice on Wednesday and was fully cleared from concussion protocol on Thursday after being out since August 12.
“This is a game I love, man,” Ward said after practice. “I love playing this game, being with the guys out here. I really don’t see myself doing too much other stuff. So unless I’m just really physically unable to play this game, I don’t see myself stepping away from football no time soon.”
Ward got his latest concussion when he hit the back of his head on the ground. Even though he was wearing a padded protective guardian cap on his helmet, it didn’t stop the injury.
The league requires players to wear these padded caps in practice, and some continue to use them in preseason games.
Although Ward doesn’t plan to use a guardian cap in games, he has been given a new helmet that he believes will offer better protection for his head.
The 27-year-old knows the risks involved every time he plays. He had two concussions as a rookie, one in 2022, another last year, and the recent one.
Ward said he saw a concussion specialist during the offseason to learn more about the long-term effects of head injuries. He feels reassured that he’s not risking his future and believes today’s players are better informed and prepared.
