CB Denzel Ward (12.26.22)
On the disappointment of not reaching the postseason in back-to-back years:
“It is very disappointing because that is always the main goal is to make it to the playoffs and have a shot there. We fell short of that. We are where we are, and we just have to finish strong. Finish strong, that is pretty much the big thing.”
On if he shares the same feelings as CB Greg Newsome II, who said it was extra disappointing to not reach the postseason with the talent currently on the Browns roster:
“Yeah, I think we definitely have the talent to be in the playoffs, compete and contend for that. Like I said, we fell short this year. The focus is on finishing strong and then find a way to come back stronger next year.”
On the Browns defense creating more takeaways in recent weeks and the significance of doing so at the beginning of the 2023 season:
“I think that will be big to kind of keep that going, but we still have two games left and that is the focus of still taking it a game at a time. I know we didn’t make the playoffs and not where we want to be. I think next year will take care of itself. I think our focus is just on trying to finish strong, finish this year out strong and finish out what we started.”
On if the Browns defense has started to reflect on missed opportunities earlier in the 2022 season:
“I think that time will come for when we can really reflect and look back at the entire season. Like I said, we have for sure two games left, and I think our focus is going to be on this next week and trying to find a way to finish strong.”
On if the Browns secondary has the potential to be one of the best in the NFL, especially given the performance of veterans and the continued development of Newsome and CB Martin Emerson Jr. in 2022:
“Yeah, I definitely do. I definitely believe that we got a special group. Like Greg said, we have a talented group of guys. Wish we could have started out a little stronger [earlier] in the year. That is including myself. We just have to find a way to come together, keep building on these games that we have been playing and the camaraderie with one another and build on one another, and I think we will be good.”
On his relationship and familiarity with Commanders WR Terry McLaurin, who also played at Ohio State:
“Terry, he is a phenomenal player. I went to school with Terry. A leader so I know he is the leader for that team and he was a leader for us Buckeyes back in those days. A great player. A great person. Looking forward to competing against him this week.”
On what makes McLaurin great on the field:
“I think because of his leadership and who he is as a person, he does all of the little things right and always going hard. Just his attention to detail, I believe.”
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