3 Contract Extensions the Browns Need to Prioritize Right Now

All eyes will be on the Cleveland Browns in 2020 as an assertive offseason has them with genuine playoff aspirations after a lowly 6-10 campaign last year. It goes without saying that their young core is among the best in the NFL, and they also have the luxury of having stars like Odell Beckham Jr, Jarvis Landry and Austin Hooper, among others, under contract for multiple seasons.

However, Cleveland also has a number of budding stars outperforming their respective rookie contracts. Before these inevitable negotiations turn into an unrelenting headache, the Browns should look to press the issue at extending these three studs.

3. Denzel Ward

Cleveland Browns CB Denzel Ward / Jason Miller/Getty Images

True fans in Cleveland didn't let Denzel Ward's superb showing in 2019 get overshadowed by the team's incompetence. According to Pro Football Focus, the 23-year-old cornerback held opposing quarterbacks to a 44.9 completion percentage when throwing his way last year. That was the best tally of any corner in the league. It's criminal to think Ward didn't make the Pro Bowl last season, but the voting process for that is always compromised. The former No. 4 overall pick is one of the brightest young talents the league has to offer and though his contract doesn't expire until after 2021, the Browns should absolutely prioritize getting him signed and sealed long term.

2. Kareem Hunt

Cleveland Browns RB Kareem Hunt / Kirk Irwin/Getty Images

We are fully aware of Kareem Hunt's concerning off-field history, but it's really impossible to deny his talent as a football player. After returning from his suspension last season, the Pro Bowl running back embraced his role as the clear No. 2 option behind starter Nick Chubb. Surprisingly enough, he thrived in that role. The Browns have already taken the brunt of the PR nightmare that came with signing the 24-year-old, so things couldn't get any worse in that aspect if they were to extend him. Hunt's versatility only accentuates the potential of Cleveland's offense, and that's why he qualifies for this list.

1. Myles Garrett

Cleveland Browns DE Myles Garrett / Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

The latest buzz suggests that the Browns are already in talks with Myles Garrett about a potential monster contract extension, and we love the aggressiveness. At 24 years old, the former No. 1 overall pick is already considered one of the best defensive players in the NFL, and deservedly so. In three seasons as a pro, Garrett has posted 104 tackles, 30.5 sacks, 65 QB hits and six forced fumbles. So long as he keeps his emotions (and rage) in check, the Texas A&M product will be one of the most productive pass rushers in the NFL for years to come.