San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward is poised to enter free agency this offseason following a challenging 2024 season away from the field.
Ward and his spouse revealed the passing of their daughter, Amani Joy, in October. She had struggled with heart issues since she was born and passed away at the age of one.
“She was the greatest gift we could have wished for, and her cheerful nature brought smiles to our faces,” Ward posted on Instagram last October. “She instructed us to embrace patience, trust, and a hopeful perspective on life.” She displayed real strength and courage. She faced challenges early in life and remained joyful, bringing brightness to every space with her grin.
“Being fortunate enough to be her parents and viewing the world from her perspective has positively transformed us.” She will always be daddy’s best buddy and mommy’s little princess. “We will always love you and miss you, Amani Joy.”
Currently, as Ward approaches free agency, he informed reporters on Monday that he might not be back with the 49ers in 2025 — although the choice would not relate to the team. Ward mentions that his choice to possibly depart from San Francisco might relate to the PTSD his wife and he have experienced due to California.
“I experienced a great deal of trauma in California,” Ward remarked thoughtfully at his locker while discussing the loss of his daughter. “I enjoyed many wonderful moments, but the worst experience I ever faced … occurred in California.”
“Simply recalling unpleasant memories.” Whenever I board a plane and return to California — Santa Clara, San Jose — it triggers negative memories. “I experience that every day.”
Ward mentioned that his wife prefers not to return to California for that reason, so he has been managing this situation on his own. Nevertheless, he prefers not to handle it alone anymore, which might result in him departing from San Francisco.
“I frequently experience PTSD,” Ward stated. “I keep feeling nauseous, waking up during the night frequently drenched in sweat.” “Things of that nature.”
Ward also mentioned that he adores the 49ers and is aware of the team’s affection for him, stating he would be willing to return to the 49ers if he could “overcome a lot of that trauma.”
In March 2022, Ward agreed to a $42 million, three-year contract with the 49ers. He earned a spot in the Pro Bowl and was named Second-Team All-Pro in 2023, recording five interceptions and leading the league with 23 pass deflections.
During his three seasons in San Francisco, he has participated in 46 games, achieving 213 tackles, six tackles for loss, six interceptions, and 41 pass deflections.
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