Top 3 Teams That Should Target Charvarius Ward in NFL Free Agency 2025

As Charvarius Ward prepares for free agency, he faces a pivotal career decision. After an emotional season that included the heartbreaking loss of his 1-year-old daughter, the 28-year-old cornerback is weighing his next move.

Ward began his career with the Kansas City Chiefs before signing with the San Francisco 49ers, where he thrived in 2023, earning second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection while helping lead the 49ers to Super Bowl LVIII. Now, with multiple teams likely to pursue him, his next destination could have a major impact on both his career and a contender’s defense.

Ranked No. 8 on Sports Illustrated’s Top 50 Free Agents List, Ward will be one of the most sought-after cornerbacks on the market. Here are three teams that could be ideal landing spots.

1. New York Jets –

If Ward is looking for a change of scenery, New York could be an intriguing option. The Jets may have an opening at cornerback if D.J. Reed departs in free agency, and Ward would be a seamless fit in their defensive scheme.

A key factor? Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. Ward thrived under Wilks in San Francisco, putting up a league-leading 23 passes defensed and five interceptions in 2023. Reuniting with Wilks could give Ward the perfect system to continue playing at a Pro Bowl level.

With head coach Aaron Glenn, a former cornerback himself, the Jets’ defensive philosophy would allow Ward to maximize his strengths, making this a logical pairing.

2. Kansas City Chiefs –

Could Ward return to where it all began? The Chiefs initially signed Ward as an undrafted free agent in 2018, and he played four strong seasons in Kansas City before signing with San Francisco.

Kansas City is once again in need of cornerback depth, and if general manager Brett Veach can maneuver the salary cap—potentially through restructuring Patrick Mahomes’s contract or making moves involving Joe Thuney or Travis Kelce—a deal could be possible.

Adding Ward would allow Trent McDuffie to move back to his natural slot position while Ward teams up with Jaylen Watson on the outside, forming one of the NFL’s best cornerback trios. Given that Veach attempted to re-sign Ward back in 2021, the Chiefs could try again to bring him back home.

3. Green Bay Packers –

If the Packers move on from Jaire Alexander, finding a replacement will be a top priority. Ward could be the perfect solution, offering a reliable presence in Jeff Hafley’s zone-heavy defense.

Unlike more aggressive schemes, Green Bay’s defense ranked 31st in blitz rate, meaning Ward wouldn’t be left in constant one-on-one situations. Instead, he’d have strong safety support from Xavier McKinney, allowing him to continue making plays without being put under excessive pressure.

Another factor? 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan maintains a close relationship with Packers coach Matt LaFleur. If Shanahan gives Ward a glowing recommendation, it could further convince Green Bay to make a serious offer.

Final Thoughts

Ward will have no shortage of suitors when free agency begins, and whether he chooses a familiar face in Kansas City, a rising defense in New York, or a fresh start in Green Bay, his impact will be felt. With elite coverage skills and proven postseason experience, Ward remains one of the top cornerbacks available—and whichever team lands him will be getting a game-changer.