Head coach Dan Quinn of the Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders notched their most impressive win in recent memory on September 23, defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 38-33 on Monday Night Football. With this victory, the Commanders improved to 2-1 on the season, already winning half as many games as they did last year. However, despite the success, the team’s defensive struggles, especially in the secondary, remain a concern.
Through three games, the Commanders’ defense has allowed opponents to score 33 or more points twice and currently ranks near the bottom of the league in passing yards allowed. Looking for a long-term solution, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder suggested that Washington target San Francisco 49ers‘ cornerback Charvarius Ward in free agency next offseason to replace their soon-to-be free agent, Benjamin St-Juste.
“While the Commanders have some young talent at cornerback, the position group is a weakness because it lacks experience,” Holder wrote on September 23. “That’s only going to get worse when Benjamin St-Juste, Michael Davis, and Noah Igbinoghene hit free agency this offseason, so the front office should explore its options on the open market. The seven-year pro [Ward] could step in and be a mentor within the position group.”
Ward, who posted career highs last season with five interceptions and 23 passes defended (leading the league), would be an impactful addition to Washington’s defense. As Holder pointed out, signing Ward would not be a budget-friendly move, but with Adam Peters projected to have over $120 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap, the Commanders are in a strong financial position to make it happen.
Ward’s Market Value Set to Rise
Ward, 30 next season, is currently playing out a three-year, $40.5 million contract but is expected to command an even bigger payday in free agency. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox projected that Ward could be the top cornerback on the market, potentially landing a three-year, $60 million deal.
“Last year, Ward recorded a league-high 23 passes defended, five interceptions, and 72 tackles,” Knox wrote on September 1. “He allowed an opposing passer rating of just 64.5 in coverage. Ward deserves to be among the league’s highest-paid cornerbacks, and that’s unlikely to change, barring injury or a massive San Francisco collapse.”
While Ward’s performance has been stellar, the 49ers may not be in a position to retain him, given their other financial commitments. With quarterback Brock Purdy entering the final year of his rookie contract, San Francisco will soon have another significant extension to address. As a result, Ward might find himself on the outside looking in when it comes to the 49ers’ future plans.
A Risky Proposition for the 49ers?
**Sports Illustrated’s Grant Cohn** believes Ward might “play himself out of San Francisco” due to the high cost of retaining a player nearing 30. In July, Cohn noted the risks associated with offering Ward a significant contract, given his recent core muscle surgery and the inevitable physical toll of the position.
“It’s risky to invest big money in a cornerback who’s almost 30. That’s why I think the 49ers might choose to extend cornerback Deommodore Lenoir’s contract instead… It’s entirely possible Ward will play himself out of town this season,” Cohn wrote.
How Ward Would Impact Washington’s Defense
The Commanders’ defense, while capable at times, has struggled to contain opposing quarterbacks. In Week 3 against the Bengals, Washington surrendered 324 yards and three passing touchdowns. In Week 1, Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield threw for 289 yards and four scores.
While the secondary has been a clear weak point, the defense as a whole needs improvement across the board — from the linebackers to the pass rush. Adding a proven veteran like Ward, an All-Pro in 2023-24, would provide stability and experience to the Commanders’ secondary. His presence could help shore up coverage and bring leadership to a unit desperate for consistency.
With the NFL’s trade deadline approaching on November 5, and free agency looming next offseason, the Commanders will need to make critical decisions about their defensive personnel if they hope to solidify themselves as playoff contenders. Signing a player of Ward’s caliber could be the first major step in building a defense that complements their emerging offense.
