Breaking: 49ers Pro Bowler Return to San Francisco in 2025 for Heartbreaking Reason.

San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward is set to enter free agency this offseason following a challenging 2024 season, marked by personal tragedy. In October, Ward and his wife announced the heartbreaking loss of their daughter, Amani Joy, who passed away at just one year old due to congenital heart problems.

“She was the greatest blessing we could have ever asked for, and her joyful spirit brought us endless smiles,” Ward shared on Instagram at the time. “She taught us patience, trust, and how to maintain a positive outlook on life. She embodied strength and bravery, overcoming adversity at such a young age while always lighting up the room with her smile.

“Being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes changed us profoundly for the better. She will always be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”

As Ward considers his future, he revealed on Monday that he may not return to the 49ers in 2025, but his decision is unrelated to the team. Instead, it stems from the emotional scars he and his wife have faced in California.

“I have a lot of trauma tied to California,” Ward said, speaking candidly at his locker about his daughter’s passing. “I’ve had great moments here, but the worst experience of my life happened in this state. Every time I fly back to California—Santa Clara, San Jose—it brings back painful memories. I relive it every day.”

Ward noted that his wife is reluctant to return to California for the same reasons, leaving him to cope with the grief alone. He admitted that facing the trauma on his own has been overwhelming, prompting him to consider a move elsewhere.

“I deal with PTSD a lot,” Ward explained. “I wake up in the middle of the night sweating, sometimes throwing up. It’s constant. I don’t want to keep going through this alone.despite this, Ward expressed deep appreciation for the 49ers organization and left the door open to staying, provided he can work through his emotional struggles. “I love the 49ers, and they love me. If I can overcome a lot of this trauma, I’d consider staying.Ward signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the 49ers in March 2022 and delivered standout performances during his time with the team. In 2023, he earned Pro Bowl honors and a Second-Team All-Pro selection, recording five interceptions and leading the league with 23 pass deflections.