Charvarius Ward faced a challenging season with the San Francisco 49ers, starting only 12 games on the defensive line and recording just over 50 combined tackles. However, what truly kept him away from the final weeks of the season was the tragic passing of his daughter.
In recent statements, Ward revealed that it’s highly unlikely he will return to the 49ers in 2025. He explained that staying in California is traumatic for him and his wife, who has already left the state, as it brings back painful memories. Notably, Ward is now a free agent.
If the 49ers are unable to re-sign Charvarius Ward for another NFL season, it would be a significant blow to their defensive room. As a cornerback, Ward has been one of the team’s standout starters since 2022, playing 17 games that year. In 2023, he was poised to earn All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors for the first time in his career.
Despite a career that has been on a steady upward trajectory, it’s highly likely Ward won’t return to the 49ers, though it hasn’t been completely ruled out. Recently, Ward revealed he’s been dealing with PTSD, which causes him to wake up in the middle of the night and vomit.
Charvarius Ward didn't rule out a return to the 49ers, but says he's suffering from PTSD following the death of his 1-year-old daughter — and some of it is location-based. "I'll be throwing up, waking up in the middle of the night, sweating," Ward said. "I got a lot of trauma in…
Where Could Ward Go If Not the 49ers?
Ward is a Super Bowl champion, having won a ring with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019 by defeating the 49ers 31-20. That championship pedigree, combined with his accomplishments in San Francisco, could make him an attractive option for teams like the Vikings or Dolphins heading into the 2025 season.
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The Cost of Keeping Ward
One challenge with Ward is his high price tag. In 2024, the 49ers paid him $18 million, making him one of the team’s highest-paid players and creating financial strain despite his efficiency on the field. If he stays in California, Ward could earn nearly $20 million over the next three years, through 2027.
