The Detroit Lions' secondary was one of the team's biggest weaknesses last season, which is why general manager Brad Holmes sunk a ton of assets into the group during the 2024 offseason.
Holmes acquired Carlton Davis in a trade, signed Amik Robertson in free agency, and then drafted Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. to completely revamp the cornerbacks room. So far, those moves have worked out well for Detroit, a team that sports a much-improved secondary.
But the Lions could have a major question mark in the position group in 2025, as Davis will be a free agent. If he leaves, the Lions have Rakestraw Jr. waiting in the wings, but he'd be a total wild card after not getting much playing time this season.
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With that in mind, Bleacher Report's Scouting Department suggests that the Lions could sign San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward, who is in the final year of a three-year, $40.5 million contract.
Signing San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward would be a win for any team with Super Bowl aspirations. He's a high-level starter on the perimeter and has a wealth of postseason experience, having appeared in Super Bowls for both the 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs.
A Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro in 2023, Ward has developed into one of the better cornerbacks in the league during his career. He's having another strong season in 2024, with Ward giving up a completion rate of 55.9% and a passer rating of 87.9 when targeted.
Ward will turn 29 next May and figures to garner plenty of attention in free agency. And, with that, he's going to command a sizeable amount of money.
Assuming Davis isn't re-signed, the Lions' interest in Ward will depend upon how they feel about Rakestraw, who the jury is still very much out on. If Detroit thinks the rookie can take over the starting job in 2025, Ward won't be necessary and the Lions can instead focus on adding depth.
But if there is any doubt about Rakestraw's ability to handle a bigger role, Ward could be on the table for the Lions.
