The Detroit Lions picked up their most dominant win of the 2024 campaign in Week 11, defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars by a score of 52-6. Dan Campbell’s squad is 9-1 and has sole possession of first place in the NFC North heading into the final seven games of the season.
The Lions have one of the deepest rosters in the NFL and have very few glaring weaknesses. Though the unit has improved in 2024, Detroit’s secondary still leaves a ton to be desired. The backend has been extremely inconsistent for the Lions this season, and general manager Brad Holmes could look to add some pieces to the group.
With the Lions in the market for a defensive back this offseason, Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department believes San Francisco 49ers’ cornerback Charvarius Ward would be a logical fit in Detroit.
“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.”
“Secondary play has still been one of Detroit’s few weaknesses in 2024. Add in the fact that Davis will be a free agent in the spring, and the Lions absolutely should consider its cornerback options on the open market.”
Though the 49ers have underwhelmed this season, Ward is having another solid campaign, allowing just a 53.1% completion rate and an 86.5 passer rating when targeted in seven games. The former Chief is still a dependable starting corner with valuable championship experience and was a Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro selection in 2023.
Ward will likely demand a sizeable contract on the open market, but it shouldn’t be anything the Lions can’t afford. If the team fails to re-sign Carlton Davis, who is also a free agent this offseason, Brad Holmes should replace Davis with the battle-tested Charvarius Ward.