On Tuesday, Ward took to social media to share the mindset he'll bring to whichever team he joins—or rejoins—stating that he's "hungry."
After the season, Ward made it clear that a return to the 49ers might not be in his future. He faced an emotionally difficult 2024 campaign, dealing with the tragic and sudden loss of his daughter, Amani Joy. While the team was supportive during the challenging time, Ward labeled 2024 as the "worst year of my career."
Taking time away from the team to grieve, Ward found it hard to focus on football when he returned, constantly reminded of his loss.
"I got a lot of trauma in California," Ward admitted. "I had a lot of great times, but the worst thing that's ever happened to me, that's probably gonna ever happen to me ... happened in California. So, again, it just brings up bad memories. Like, every time I get on the plane to come back to California, Santa Clara, San Jose, and show up here, it's just where I got bad memories. I go through that every day.
"I go home every night by myself because my girl, she don't want to come back to California because of what happened. So, it's hard being alone, and she's my strength right now. I need her. And so, her not being able to be around me if I'm in California would be tough."
While Ward hasn't completely ruled out returning to the 49ers, he remains uncertain about his future.
"But, like I said, stuff can change," he added. "I can get stronger and probably get over that, so we'll see."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
The Stat No One's Talking About That Could Define the 49ers' 2025 Season
A lot has been written about the outstanding performance of San Francisco's coaching staff this year. Head coach Kyle Shanahan deserves all the praise for the work he's done with the offense and the overall team chemistry. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, of course, is... -
Schefter highlights 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey's historic 2025 season
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is putting together a season for the history books. While he's averaging a career-low 3.6 yards per carry, his versatility as a playmaker in both the running and passing game makes him one of quarterback Brock Purdy's most... -
49ers GM says starting safety Ji'Ayir Brown making "game-changing plays"
His career has been up and down so far, but third-year safety Ji'Ayir Brown is beginning to play with more consistency. And he's making an impact on the San Francisco 49ers' injury-plagued defense. Coming off his best game as a pro, in which he had two interceptions against the... -
49ers' John Lynch defends Jauan Jennings against criticism: 'They all wish he were on their team'
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings found himself at the center of controversy following Sunday's win over the Cleveland Browns. Several Browns players accused the fiery 49ers receiver of crossing the line with comments he allegedly made during an injury...