The San Francisco 49ers have already had a busy offseason, trading Deebo Samuel to begin the transition process into a new era. Many of the stars the fans love are still around, though Samuel isn't the only one who won't be back.
This defense is undergoing a major transformation. Not only is Javon Hargrave gone, but veteran cornerback Charvarius Ward is seemingly leaving as well. He's been one of the best defensive backs in the NFL since joining the organization in 2022, so his pending departure will leave a large hole.
Fittingly, it sounds like Ward is highly sought after by teams around the league in the free agency market.
I know Charvarius Ward had an, understandably, down season last year, but there's still so much good film from him in 2024. A really smooth, confident, and technically sound player in coverage. pic.twitter.com/1mp4bBXWVu
— Zach Hicks (@ZachHicks2) March 3, 2025
49ers CB Charvarius Ward Drawing Interest From Rivals
According to Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports, Ward was a popular name at the NFL Combine among other NFL teams entering free agency.
Ward "was another name that was brought to my attention by teams, even unprompted," Shultz wrote. In a relatively weak cornerback market, that makes sense. Still just 28 years old, Ward is one year removed from All-Pro honors and has a significant track record of success.
In 2023, Ward allowed just a 64.5 passer rating and 54.1% completion percentage when targeted in coverage. Partially due to injury, his production fell off in a major way in 2024, allowing a 116.6 passer rating and 61.5% completion percentage. That said, those numbers feel like an outlier based on his career, and letting him walk could come back to bite San Francisco.
This franchise is at a crossroads, as they try to decide how to allocate money with Brock Purdy's contract extension looming. The 49ers missed their opportunity on Purdy's rookie deal and now have to make difficult decisions, adding importance to the upcoming rookie class.
Should the front office whiff on the draft, San Francisco's outlook grows dimmer. Now that Ward is presumed to be leaving, expect cornerback to be a top priority.
Ward will be determined to prove he's still an impact player. If he signs with an NFC team, the 49ers may wonder how they let such a talented corner leave while facing elite passing offenses in the conference.