"I wouldn't read into it,
Scarpe Nike Air Force Just Do It," Pettine warned. "It only eliminates the ability to have tagged him. He's an outstanding player and he's a Cleveland Brown and we'll make the decision for what's best for him moving forward."
If Ward is out of their plans, the Browns could pursue Buffalo free safety Jairus Byrd, who was not tagged by the Bills. A three-time Pro Bowler, Byrd could be reunited in Cleveland with Pettine, who spent last season as Buffalo's defensive coordinator.