Denzel Ward: I was pretty sick with COVID-19

Denzel Ward is one of Cleveland’s top two defensive players, and he’ll be back this week for the team’s divisional game with the Chiefs.

But Ward has been away since Dec.31 when he was placed on the reserve / COVID-19 list. He said Wednesday he experienced significant symptoms after testing positive for the virus.

“I was pretty sick,” Ward said, via Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal. “Just flu-like symptoms, all the body aches and chills and stuff like that.” I was fairly well appointed in my house.

Ward noted that he was surprised he tested positive because he often wears a mask.

“It was a bit difficult. I lost my smell and my sense of taste, so it was really different, ”Ward said. “All the dishes tasted the same. I was only choosing the food for its texture because I couldn’t really taste it. It wasn’t great. I’m glad I got over it and hope everyone will continue to stay safe, wear a mask and try to beat it.

In his third season out of Ohio state, Ward had two interceptions, 18 defenses and one forced fumble in 12 games this season.