49ers' Charvarius Ward proves his health in best way possible

It appeared as if Charvarius Ward was taking a substantial risk by playing in the San Francisco 49ers' Week 15 game with the Arizona Cardinals. He vindicated the decision on the second defensive series for San Francisco. Ward, the Niners' top corner, did not practice all week because of a groin injury but was still […]

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Dec 17, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward (7) scores a touchdown after intercepting a pass against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at State Farm Stadium.
Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

It appeared as if Charvarius Ward was taking a substantial risk by playing in the San Francisco 49ers' Week 15 game with the Arizona Cardinals.

He vindicated the decision on the second defensive series for San Francisco.

Ward, the Niners' top corner, did not practice all week because of a groin injury but was still deemed healthy enough to play as the 49ers sought to clinch the NFC West with a win.

With a massive Christmas Day game with the Baltimore Ravens on the horizon, risking aggravating his injury seemed a questionable move.

But Ward proved there was no reason to worry with 4:22 remaining in the first quarter, intercepting Kyler Murray on fourth down and taking it 66 yards the other way to give the 49ers a 14-7 lead.

It marked just the third interception of the season for Ward, who entered Week 15 leading the NFL with 20 pass breakups, and the first pick-six of his career.

Ward later iced the victory for San Francisco when he intercepted Murray for a second time to take his tally for the season to four with 6:23 remaining in the fourth quarter.

The 49ers prevailed 45-29 and clinched the division for the second straight year, their victory owing much to Ward's demonstration of why he deserves to be in consideration for the All-Pro team.