The San Francisco 49ers are set to be without Charvarius Ward, who has stepped away from the team to grieve the tragic loss of his one-year-old daughter.
Ward and his family suffered this heartbreaking event on October 28, when his daughter, Amani Joy, passed away. Since then, Ward has received an outpouring of support from his 49ers teammates and the broader NFL community.
The latest expression of support came from San Francisco, as 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan provided an update on Ward’s situation. The 2023 Pro Bowl cornerback has not practiced this week, and Shanahan emphasized that the team is giving Ward all the time he needs to grieve.
On November 6, ESPN reporter Nick Wagoner shared Shanahan’s remarks on X: “On CB Charvarius Ward, #49ers coach Kyle Shanahan made it clear Ward will be given as much time as he needs to grieve the tragic passing of his young daughter. ‘We’re on his time for that,’ Shanahan said.”
Ward has become a key figure in the 49ers’ defense over the past few seasons, especially after leading the NFL in batted passes in 2023. However, the 49ers organization and Shanahan are focused on supporting Ward through this difficult time.
Ward Supported by OL Trent Williams
While a tragedy like this is difficult to respond to, 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams has been vocal about the team’s support. In an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, the 3-time All-Pro shared how he and his teammates have been there for Ward.
“We all reached out to him. More than anything, we wanted to give him his privacy to deal with things that a lot of us can’t even fathom. Much love. Much prayers,” Williams said on November 4. “We all tapped in with him, but we’re all respecting his privacy. Letting him and his family get through a trying time.”
Ward’s daughter had faced health challenges from birth, including undergoing bypass surgery in April 2023.
Ward Announced His Daughter’s Passing
In a statement no parent should have to make, Ward shared the sad news himself. On October 29, he took to social media to honor the memory of his daughter.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy, passed away on Monday morning,” Ward posted on Instagram. “She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear. She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life.
She showed us true strength and bravery. She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile. Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better. She will forever be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”
Ward later posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram story, sharing his immense grief. On October 31, he posted a photo of himself with Amani Joy, writing, “My soul’s bleeding. I need you Amani. You did not deserve this.”
