Charvarius Ward will join the list of 49ers missing Monday night’s game against the Lions at Levi’s Stadium after the team ruled him out Sunday afternoon.
The veteran cornerback and his girlfriend, Monique Cook, have been expecting the birth of a baby boy. The team cited personal reasons for Ward’s absence after coach Kyle Shanahan indicated Friday that Ward had good news but declined to explain further.
Two months ago, Ward and Cook lost their first-born daughter unexpectedly at 23 months old. Ward missed three games in the wake of the devastating loss.
As a pending free agent, Ward may have played his last game for the 49ers. He has been with the team the last three seasons after signing as a free agent from Kansas City, earning Pro Bowl honors last year as the top corner on an NFC champion team.
He has 51 tackles and seven passes defensed this season after 72 tackles and five interceptions in 2023, including a two-pick, one-touchdown day last Dec. 17 at Arizona.
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In his absence, more will be thrust on the recently extended Deommodore Lenoir against the Lions’ air attack, and rookie Renardo Green will likely start in Ward’s place. Free agent signee Isaac Yiadom also may see more playing time.
Along with Ward, left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) and linebacker Dre Greenlaw (calf) were ruled out earlier this week, as were guards Aaron Banks (knee) and Spencer Burford (calf). Williams was placed on injured reserve and Greenlaw is also out for the season.