"Ward has had an interesting career, to say the least," wrote Linsey. "Four of his six NFL seasons have been cut short by injury, and he had been a cornerback in the only other seasons in which he played 500-plus snaps prior to last year (2015 and 2016). Last year, however, Ward was excellent as the 49ers' starting free safety."
The 49ers selected Ward out of Northern Illinois with the No. 30 overall pick in 2014. He racked up a career-high 65 tackles, a sack, and eight passes defensed last season.
San Francisco re-signed Ward to a three-year, $28.5 million deal in March.
"The 49ers allowed just 10 completions on passes 20 or more yards downfield during the 2019 regular season — the fewest in the NFL by six — and Ward gets a lot of the credit for that with his 84.9 overall grade on the season," added Linsey.
Ward has registered 251 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions, 29 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries over his NFL career.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers QB Brock Purdy named NFC Offensive Player of the Week after 5-TD game
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has been named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week following his standout Week 16 performance against the Indianapolis Colts. Purdy completed 25 of 34 passes (73.5 percent) for 295 yards and a career-high five touchdown passes,... -
49ers vs. Colts PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 11-4 after a 48-27 win against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 16. Today, Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game. Which Niners stood out, and who needs more work? Highest-graded 49ers:... -
49ers vs. Bears PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 12-4 after a 42-38 win against the Chicago Bears in Week 17. Today, Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game. Which Niners stood out, and who needs more work? Highest-graded 49ers: Offense Luke... -
49ers add explosiveness to offense in PFF's 2026 NFL mock draft
The San Francisco 49ers are expected to pursue a veteran wide receiver in free agency, especially with Brandon Aiyuk's time in the Bay Area appearing to wind down. But head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch may also use the 2026 NFL Draft to add another weapon...