While Shanahan noted that the reason for Ward's absence was good news, he added, "Stuff I can't totally share. I haven't talked to him about it, so we'll keep it personal. But, nothing bad happened."
Ward was back with the 49ers on Wednesday as the team prepares for its season finale against the Arizona Cardinals. The cornerback shared that he had been away from the team to be with his girlfriend, Monique Cook, as they welcomed their son, Charvarius Jr., into the world.
Charvarius Jr. was born on December 28, in good health.
The year 2024 was challenging for Ward and Cook. The cornerback took time off from football following the heartbreaking loss of their young daughter, Amani Joy.
Ward and Cook first met in 2020, shortly after Ward won Super Bowl LIV with the Kansas City Chiefs. Ward is scheduled to become a free agent in March.
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