Colts CB Ward Reveals Mental Struggles During 49ers 2024 Season After Daughter's Death

Charvarius Ward, a standout cornerback, left the San Francisco 49ers after a tumultuous 2024 season marked by personal tragedy and professional disappointment. Ward lost his one-year-old daughter to heart complications, which deeply affected his mental health and motivation, leading him to feel detached from football after returning from his three-game absence. Even before this tragedy, Ward was frustrated by the 49ers' refusal to offer him a contract extension despite his All-Pro 2023 season, especially as other players received lucrative deals. These combined factors contributed to his decision to seek a fresh start, and he signed a three-year, $54–60 million deal with the Indianapolis Colts. Now with the Colts, Ward reports feeling much better mentally and emotionally, expressing optimism as he prepares for the upcoming season. He will face his former team, the 49ers, in a notable matchup on December 22 in Indianapolis.