“Make them know your name.” It’s a mantra Denzel Ward holds close to his heart. Because it’s a legacy from his late father. But it’s more than just words for the Cleveland Browns’ star cornerback. It’s a mission. One that extends beyond the football field and into the lives of countless families in his community. Ward’s message isn’t just about tackling opponents. It’s about tackling a silent killer.
Ward has taken significant steps to honor his father, Paul Ward. Paul passed away in 2016 from sudden cardiac arrest. Hence, Ward is championing cardiovascular health awareness through his “Make Them Know Your Name Foundation.” “The loss of my dad changed my life dramatically,” Ward shared in a heartfelt video posted by the NFL Network. “It was a defining moment. I felt some people could either go down a real dark road or you could take a different direction; try to make a positive change with your life.” His foundation partners with organizations like Avive Solutions and the American Heart Association to place AEDs (automated external defibrillators) in schools and public spaces across Cleveland.
.@Browns #WPMOY nominee @denzelward created the “Make Them Know Your Name Foundation” to honor his late father. His commitment to the education of Cardiovascular health is making a long-lasting impact in his community.
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— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) January 18, 2025
The initiative is already making waves. To date, nearly 100 AEDs have been deployed in the Cleveland area, and we’ve implemented CPR training programs. Denzel’s mother, Nicole, highlighted the importance of education and confidence in saving lives: “We are as a foundation providing the training, the education, the resources, and even more importantly, instilling the confidence in people to take action when faced with sudden emergency, such as sudden cardiac arrest.” The foundation’s impact echoes far and wide. It can save countless lives and ensure that other families don’t face the heartbreak the Wards endured.
Ward’s efforts parallel another football hero: Damar Hamlin of the Bills. Hamlin’s cardiac arrest during a game in early 2023 sparked national awareness about the importance of AEDs. His story inspired legislative changes. This includes the HEARTS Act which was signed into law in December 2024. It funds AED placements and CPR training in schools. Ward’s foundation amplifies this momentum. Moreover, he proves that football players can impact lives far beyond the gridiron.
While Denzel’s work is gaining recognition, he isn’t stopping here. “Each day, when Denzel wakes up, that was his focus that he just wants to be a help to someone else,” Nicole said. Ward envisions his legacy to go beyond interceptions and touchdowns. He wants it to be about saving lives and empowering communities. Ward’s next moves will undoubtedly continue to inspire—but his story is only beginning. However, his concerns are not limited to the community. Ward took a moment to express concerns over the state of his team’s quarterback situation in an interview with TMZ.
Denzel Ward sends a strong message to Cleveland’s front office
Ward sent a clear message as the franchise grapples with Deshaun Watson’s injury troubles. “I think we need a great quarterback,” he said. “In the NFL, everything starts with the quarterback position. Once you get that solidified, then the rest of the team go follows, and carry along.” Watson’s struggles in the field have been well documented. Furthermore, his latest Achilles injury has raised further concerns. His current contract—an eye-watering $230 million deal—was supposed to be a franchise-changing decision. But Watson’s health is in jeopardy. And it’s clear that the Browns need to rethink their strategy.
However, Ward’s optimism for the team shines through even with Watson sidelined. “I don’t think we are too far off,” he said. But he also made it clear that finding a stable quarterback would be crucial to the Browns’ success. Some have even suggested Geno Smith as a potential solution. Smith delivered a solid performance in Seattle. He threw for over 4,300 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2024, numbers that could help lift the Browns out of their offensive woes. So, where does that leave the team for 2025?
“He is a solid. He’s a solid quarterback,” Ward said about Smith. The solution is simple, as Ward pointed out: get the quarterback position right, and the rest of the team will follow suit. The team’s path to success could be within reach with talent like Ward on defense. But only if they can secure a leader under center.
In the coming months, Cleveland’s front office will face pressure to address these concerns head-on. The offense will need a reliable quarterback to make a serious playoff push. The next few months will be crucial in determining if they can turn the page. Turn the page on a disappointing season and give Ward, Garrett, and the rest of the team the opportunity they deserve.
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