NFL Spin Zone
Fansided

Initial grades for 10 of the biggest deals from NFL free agency

By Andrew Falce

2022 NFL Free Agency; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) runs for yards after the catch against the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
2022 NFL Free Agency; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) runs for yards after the catch against the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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NFL Free Agency
NFL Free Agency – Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase (1) is unable to catch a pass in the end zone as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward (35) defends in the first quarter during the AFC championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo.Cincinnati Bengals At Kansas City Chiefs Jan 30 Afc Championship 161 /

49ers sign Charvarius Ward in NFL free agency

Deal: 3-years, $40.5 million

Grade: B-

Charvarius Ward is a player I really liked heading into free agency. While not a part of the top tier of cornerback, Ward has been an ascending player in this league. Each year he has made some sort of improvement in his game to the point now that he is a well-respected cornerback in this league. Add in his age and there is a chance Ward continues to grow as a player.

The issue I have with this comes down to financials. While Ward was deserving of a more expensive contract, he got 13.5 million a season. That is almost at much as Carlton Davis got for re-signing with the Buccaneers. These players aren’t in the same spectrum of cornerback, and more than 1.5 million a season should separate them.

Despite this being a slight overpay, Ward should still be a capable starter for the 49ers for the next few years. He has the size and athleticism to match up against some of the top receivers in the league. Assuming he continues his development, this is a pretty good deal for the 49ers. That said, his average per year is a little bit high.

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