Jimmie Ward of the San Francisco 49ers has been making a name for himself as one of the top NFL cornerbacks, according to the recent rankings from Pro Football Focus (PFF). Ward, who joined the 49ers in 2022, has been a standout player on the team’s defense, showcasing exceptional coverage skills and a tenacity that sets him apart.
In the 2023 NFL season, Ward’s performance earned him Second Team All-Pro honors, and his impressive stats caught the attention of PFF. With five interceptions and a league-leading 23 pass breakups last season, Ward secured the third spot in PFF’s cornerback rankings. He was only surpassed by Sauce Gardner of the New York Jets at No. 1 and Trent McDuffie of the Kansas City Chiefs at No. 2.
Despite his stellar performance, Ward often goes unnoticed in discussions about the best cornerbacks in the league. However, Kosko from PFF highlighted Ward’s outstanding coverage grade of 88.5 over the past two years, emphasizing that he deserves more recognition as one of the top corners in the NFL. Ward has consistently shut down receivers since joining the 49ers, proving his worth on the field.
In addition to his on-field success, Ward has been dealing with a core muscle injury for the past four seasons. He recently underwent surgery to address the issue and is expected to be ready for training camp. As he enters the final year of his contract in 2024, Ward expressed his desire to remain with the 49ers, citing his love for the team, coaches, and teammates. While he leaves contract negotiations to his agent, Ward is focused on performing at his best and letting his game speak for itself.
The 49ers undoubtedly value Ward’s contributions to the team’s defense, and his ranking among the top NFL cornerbacks further solidifies his reputation as a premier defender in the league. As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, Ward’s presence on the field promises to bring excitement and excellence to the 49ers’ defense. Stay tuned for more updates on Ward’s performance and the latest news from the San Francisco 49ers.