Lions Predicted to Pursue Charvarius Ward to Fix Cornerback Issue
As the Detroit Lions prepare for the upcoming offseason, their defense is once again a focal point. While the team boasts two of the NFL’s best safeties and an edge rusher who could be the Defensive Player of the Year next season, there’s still one glaring weakness: cornerback. Despite trading for Carlton Davis and drafting two corners last year, the Lions’ secondary remains a question mark. With Davis set to hit free agency and their young corners still unproven, Detroit is expected to pursue some veteran help.
One player they’re predicted to target is Charvarius Ward, the San Francisco 49ers’ cornerback. Ward isn’t coming off a great season—his worst since his rookie year—with a 61.5% completion percentage and 7.5 yards per target allowed. However, his past performances show he’s capable of playing at a high level, which could make him an attractive option for the Lions.
The focus this offseason has largely been on adding edge-rushing talent to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, but cornerback may actually be the more pressing need. The free-agent market for corners is much thinner, and with few options available by the time Detroit picks in the draft, they may find Ward to be their best shot. If they can land him, Ward could provide the stability Detroit needs at cornerback, shoring up the defense for a potential playoff push in 2025.