Browns’ Denzel Ward leads Cleveland campaign urging residents to act as first responder

CLEVELAND, May 28, 2026 - Cleveland Browns cornerback and American Heart Association Nation of Lifesavers™ NFL Player Ambassador Denzel Ward is taking his impact beyond the field and into the heart of the city appearing on new billboards across Cleveland for National CPR and AED Week, June 1-7 annually. Ward, who lost his father to sudden cardiac death, is lending his voice to a lifesaving message: anyone can perform Hands‑Only CPR.

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 6 in 10 American adults still mistakenly believe that only people with special training should perform Hands‑Only CPR. This misconception can cost lives.

Immediate CPR, also known as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is proven to dramatically improve outcomes, and because most cardiac arrests happen outside a hospital, bystanders are often the only ones who can act in time. Launched in February 2026, the Heart Association's national theme - You Are the First Responder Until Help Arrives - is brought to life in Cleveland through Ward's presence on billboards encouraging residents to step in confidently during an emergency.