Jimmie Ward Injury News & Updates

Head coach DeMeco Ryans said Monday that Ward (foot) could return to practice within a few weeks, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward is on the reserve/PUP list as he continues to recover from offseason foot surgery. While a return for the veteran corner isn't imminent, he appears to be on track to return during the second half of the regular season. Ward's absence, coupled with the Texans releasing C.J. Gardner-Johnson in late September, has allowed M.J. Stewart to step into a starting role at safety alongside Calen Bullock.

The NFL removed Ward (foot) from the Commissioner Exempt List on Monday, and the Texans moved him to the reserve/PUP list in a corresponding move, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Ward was placed on the Commissioner Exempt List in late August as part of an investigation in his arrest in mid-June on third-degree felony domestic violence charges. Ward is still under investigation, but his move off the List to the PUP means he will be able to participate in team activities once he has been cleared to return from a foot injury that he suffered in late December of 2024.

The Texans placed Ward (undisclosed) on the Commissioner Exempt List on Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Ward will not be eligible to participate in practice or attend regular-season games until such time as he's brought off the Commissioner Exempt List. He may face league discipline relating to a pair of offseason arrests, the original having occurred in June on third-degree felony domestic violence charges. Ward is also recovering from foot surgery and isn't yet ready to practice were he eligible to do so, per Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston.

Ward (foot) was booked into the Montgomery County jail after being arrested on a warrant Thursday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward was originally arrested in June on third-degree felony domestic violence charges, and he'll now await a court date on August 13. Ward has yet to practice during training camp while tending to a foot injury.

Ward (foot) was placed on the active/PUP list Wednesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Ward missed nine games for the Texans last season with both a concussion and later, a foot injury in Week 17. Early in the offseason, head coach DeMeco Ryans said the 34-year-old was "doing fine" in the progression of his foot injury, according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston. With injuries limiting him to just 20 games over the past two seasons, the team is taking a cautious approach with the veteran, but he can return at any point in the offseason, should the team deem him ready.

Ward (foot) has not yet been cleared to resume football activities but has resumed running, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward missed the final two games of the regular season last year and the Texans' two playoff contests. He needed foot surgery and is still in the rehab phase. Ward sounds likely to start training camp on the active/PUP list. He's also dealing with a legal matter, with a court date scheduled for Aug. 13.

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said Monday that Ward (foot) is "doing fine" in his recovery from foot surgery and "is starting to get back to running a little bit," Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward appears on track in his recovery from foot surgery undergone to address a season-ending injury sustained Week 16. The veteran safety figures to be ready for the start of training camp, but Houston may continue to take a cautious approach to his recovery in the meantime. Ward has dealt with numerous injuries across the last two seasons, which have limited him to just 20 regular-season appearances in that span.

The Texans placed Ward (foot) on injured reserve Monday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

This move doesn't come as much of a surprise, as the safety will be undergoing season-ending surgery for his foot. The veteran safety left this past Sunday's matchup in the first half and was unable to return to the eventual loss. His long-term absence from the field will prime M.J. Stewart or Myles Bryant to fill in at nickel cornerback.

Ward (foot) will get surgery for his foot injury and is out for the year, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.com reports.

Ward suffered a foot injury in the first half of Saturday's loss to the Chiefs and was unable to return. The veteran safety will now focus on returning next year as he undergoes foot surgery which should keep him out long term. He has dealt with a slew of injuries throughout this campaign, the most notable being a groin problem, but never anything severe enough to sideline him indefinitely. M.J. Stewart or Myles Bryant will now fill in as the nickel cornerback in Ward's absence.

Ward (foot) won't return to Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Ward had three tackles (one solo) prior to getting injured in the first half. M.J. Stewart or Myles Bryant will take over as the nickel cornerback in Ward's absence.

Ward finished Sunday's 20-12 win over the Dolphins with nine tackles (four solo) and one pass defense.

Ward's nine tackles Sunday was a season best and was second on the Texans behind Henry To'oTo'o (11). Ward played 60 defensive snaps, which were his most since Week 3 against the Vikings. Over his last five outings, Ward has logged 28 tackles (18 solo) and three pass defenses (two interceptions including a pick-six against the Titans in Week 12).

Ward (head) is not listed on Houston's injury report Wednesday.

Ward exited Houston's Week 13 win over Jacksonville to get evaluated for a concussion. However, the Texans were on bye last week, and the veteran safety appears clear of any head issue. Ward is thus set to suit up in Sunday's Week 15 matchup versus Miami.

Ward was checked for a concussion during Sunday's 23-20 win at Jacksonville.

It's unclear if Ward has entered the protocol for head injuries, but if he does he'll need to pass through its five phases and gain clearance from an independent neurologist in order to suit up again. He had six tackles, including a tackle for loss, before departing in the second half.

Ward recorded six tackles, three for a loss, and returned an interception 65 yards for a touchdown in Sunday's 32-27 loss to the Titans in Week 12.

Ward stepped in front of a Will Levis pass and raced untouched to the house. At the time, the score gave Houston a lead late in the third quarter. The pick was his second in the three weeks since returning from a groin injury.

Ward had five tackles and an interception in Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Lions in Week 10.

Ward battled a groin injury throughout the practice week after missing four games due to the injury. He made an immediate impact, intercepting a Jared Goff pass on Detroit's first possession, setting up Houston at the Lions' 33-yard line and a Joe Mixon touchdown run. The pick was the first of the season the 33-year-old Ward, whose two-year run in Houston has been marred by injuries.

Ward (groin) has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Lions.

Ward practiced in full Friday after opening the Texans' week of practice with consecutive limited sessions, indicating that he's moved past his groin injury in time to face Detroit in Week 10. The veteran had missed Houston's last four games, so this will be the first time the Texans' have had their top safety duo of Ward and Calen Bullock since Week 5.

Ward (groin) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.

Ward has missed four consecutive games due to a groin injury; however, Wednesday's limited practice session could be an indication that he's almost past the issue. If the 11th-year pro can suit up for Week 10's matchup against the Lions, he'll likely serve as the Texans' top free safety.

Ward (groin) has been ruled out ahead of Thursday night's matchup against the Jets.

Ward downgraded to a DNP on Wednesday after practicing in a limited fashion Tuesday due to a groin injury, so it's not surprising the veteran safety will miss his fourth consecutive game in Week 9. Expect Eric Murray to continue starting alongside Calen Bullock while Ward remains sidelined Thursday night.

Ward (groin) was a limited participant in practice Tuesday after missing Monday's session, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

The starting safety missed the last three games with the groin injury, though he didn't practice at all last week, so his return may be a good sign ahead of Thursday's matchup with the Jets. Ward has 17 tackles and a pass breakup in four games this season. Eric Murray should start in his place again if he can't go against New York.

Ward (groin) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Colts.

Ward didn't practice all week and has missed the Texans' last two games due to a groin injury, so it's no surprise he's been ruled out ahead of Week 8. Expect Eric Murray to continue starting alongside Calen Bullock in Houston's secondary until Ward can return to the field.

Ward (groin) was listed as a DNP on the Texans' injury report Wednesday.

Ward suffered a groin injury during the Texans' Week 5 win over the Bills. The injury is severe enough that he's missed Houston's last two games and has been unable to practice. Ward will have two more opportunities this week to return in at least a limited capacity ahead of Sunday's AFC South showdown against the Colts.

Ward (groin) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Packers.

Ward has yet to practice since aggravating his groin injury in the Texans' Week 5 win over the Bills, and he's now in line to miss his second consecutive game in Week 7. Expect Eric Murray to start alongside Calen Bullock as part of Houston's top safety duo while Ward remains sidelined Sunday.

Ward (groin) is not expected to play Week 7 against Green Bay, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward, who was a non-participant in Wednesday's practice session, will miss a second consecutive game if this report holds up over the next few days. Ward's absence would mean more work for Calen Bullock and Eric Murray, each of whom intercepted a pass in last week's game against the Patriots.

Ward (groin) didn't practice Wednesday.

Ward was sidelined for the Texans' Week 6 win over the Patriots after aggravating a pre-existing groin injury the week prior, and Wednesday's DNP indicates he could miss even more time. If the veteran safety cannot upgrade to at least limited participation Thursday or Friday, expect Eric Murray to start alongside Calen Bullock in Houston's secondary.

Ward (groin) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Patriots.

Ward was expected to miss the Texans' Week 6 contest after aggravating a pre-existing groin injury the week prior, and Friday's injury report made it official. Expect Calen Bullock to start alongside Jalen Pitre while Ward recovers from his injury.

Ward (groin) is not expected to play Sunday against the Patriots, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward sat out a second consecutive practice Thursday after aggravating a pre-existing groin injury during Week 5's win over Buffalo. It's the same injury the forced the safety to miss Week 4 against Jacksonville. Apparently, per league sources, Ward could miss multiple games. Calen Bullock is expected to replace Ward, who has 17 tackles and one pass defensed over four games.

Ward (groin) did not practice Wednesday.

Ward exited Sunday's win over the Bills after he aggravated a groin injury that had him questionable for the matchup, and also caused a Week 4 absence. The Northern Illinois product will work to get back on the practice field Thursday or Friday ahead of their Week 6 matchup with the Patriots.

Ward (groin) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Bills.

Ward exited before the end of the first half after aggravating a groin injury that had him questionable coming into the day. In his continued absence, Eric Murray and Calen Bullock will see extra opportunities on the field.

Ward (groin) has exited Sunday's game against the Bills.

Ward was questionable for the matchup due to the same injury but ultimately suited up for the contest. The Northern Illinois product seemingly aggravated the injury in the second quarter, after compiling two tackles, including one for a loss. He's considered questionable to return Sunday.

Ward (groin) was a full participant in Friday's practice and does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Bills.

Ward injured his groin during practice leading up to Week 4 against the Jaguars, which he was forced to sit out of. He was limited during Wednesday's and Thursday's practices, but he's good to go for Week 5 after practicing in full Friday. Ward will reclaim his starting role at free safety alongside strong safety Jalen Pitre. Ward played every single defensive snap through the first three games of the regular season, and over that span he accumulated 15 tackles (11 solo) and one pass defended.

Ward (groin) was a limited participant in practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward closed out last week with back-to-back DNPs before being ruled out for the Texans' Week 4 win over the Jaguars. His return to the field Wednesday should put him on a trajectory to have a good chance of suiting up Sunday against the Bills.

Ward (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

Ward appeared to have suffered the injury in Wednesday's practice, as he was limited that day, and then finished the week with back-to-back DNPs on Thursday and Friday. Eric Murray figures to draw in as the starting safety next to Calen Bullock for Houston.

Ward (quadriceps) recorded 50 tackles, three passes defensed, one interception and one forced fumble over 10 games in 2023.

Ward, a team captain, was beset by injuries all season long. He missed time due to hip, hamstring and shoulder injuries before a quadricep ended his season in December. In between the setbacks, Ward played well, and his one interception was an end-zone pick that sealed a win over Denver. Houston went 6-4 in games he played and could use his stabilizing presence on the back end. Ward turns 33 in July and will be entering his 11th season.

Ward (quadriceps) was placed on injured reserve by the Texans on Tuesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward suffered the quadriceps injury in Sunday's loss to the Browns and he'll now be forced to miss the remainder of the regular season with a shot at returning if Houston advances deep into the postseason. In his place, Adrian Amos or DeAndre Houston-Carson will take over at starting strong safety, beginning in Week 17 against the Titans.

Ward (quadriceps) has been ruled out for the rest of Sunday's game against the Browns.

Ward left in the first half after sustaining a quadriceps injury and had one tackle before his exit. It's the second week in a row that Ward has been taken out of a game after leaving last week's contest with a concussion. DeAndre Houston-Carson will fill in at strong safety alongside free safety Jalen Pitre for the rest of Sunday's game.

Ward is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Browns with a quad injury.

The safety made one tackle before exiting. Ward has 50 tackles, three passes defensed, an interception and a forced fumble in 2023. DeAndre Houston-Carson should see more playing time in his absence.

Ward (concussion) carries no injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Browns.

Ward was a full participant in Thursday's practice and has cleared the NFL's five-step concussion protocol. He sustained the concussion in Week 15 against the Titans but will not miss any time. Ward has 49 tackles (32 solo), one interception and one forced fumble in nine games this season.

Ward (concussion) was a limited participant in practice Thursday after missing Wednesday's session.

The safety left last Sunday's win over the Titans with the concussion, but now he may be trending toward a return for the Texans' Week 16 matchup with the Browns. Ward has 49 tackles, three passes defensed, an interception and a forced fumble in 2023.

Ward has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Titans with a concussion.

Ward sustained a concussion on the first drive of the game and will not return. He finishes the game with two tackles (one solo) as DeAndre Houston-Carson takes over at strong safety.

Ward (concussion) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Titans.

Ward sustained the injury on a tackle on tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo on the first drive of the game. DeAndre Houston-Carson is likely to step in at strong safety in Ward's place.

Ward (shoulder) was a full participant in Friday's practice and does not carry an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Jets.

Ward sustained a shoulder injury in the Texans' Week 13 win over the Broncos. He upgraded his participation in practice throughout the week, culminating in a full session Friday, and will suit up Sunday. Ward had the crucial game-sealing interception off Russell Wilson last Sunday and he'll look to provide further trouble for Jets quarterback Zach Wilson in Week 14.

Ward (shoulder) did not participate in Houston's practice Wednesday.

Ward came up with a huge interception in the end zone with less than 20 seconds remaining to help preserve the Texans' win this past Sunday versus Denver, but he came out of the contest with a shoulder injury. Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports that scans indicated that the safety's shoulder "checked out fine" and that he's likely dealing with "just a bruise," so there appears to be a good chance that he'll be able to play this Sunday against the Jets. However, it bears watching Houston's injury report the rest of this week, as Ward may need to be a full participant in at least one practice session to avoid going into the weekend with an injury designation.

Ward recorded six tackles (four solo) and an interception in Sunday's 22-17 win versus the Broncos.

The interception was the first of the season for Ward, and it could not have come at a better time for Houston. With less than 20 seconds to play, Russell Wilson escaped from blind-side pressure to air out a jump ball in the direction of six-foot-six tight end Lucas Krull in the end zone, but the five-foot-eleven Ward went airborne and came down with it to preserve the Texans' lead and the win. Despite the Week 13 heroics, there will be better IDP options in Week 14 when the Texans travel to face the Jets.

Ward (hamstring) was a full participant in practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday's session.

The safety has missed three straight games but appears in line to return Sunday against the Broncos. The 10th-year pro has 35 tackles, two passes defensed and a forced fumble in 2023.

Ward (hamstring) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

The veteran safety was held out of practice all week, and he's now in line to miss his third game in a row Sunday, as he continues to recover from a hamstring issue. DeAndre Houston-Carson is expected to continue starting in Houston's secondary until Ward can return to the field.

Ward (hamstring) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Cardinals.

Ward is in line to miss his second consecutive game after leaving the Texans' Week 9 win over the Buccaneers with a hamstring issue. With the veteran safety missing even more time, expect DeAndre Houston-Carson to start in Houston's secondary this Sunday.

Ward (hamstring) is listed as out for Sunday's game at Cincinnati, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.com reports.

Ward did not participate at practice this week, so it's little surprise that he won't suit up Sunday. Grayland Arnold could start at safety in Ward's place against the pass-heavy Bengals.

Ward (hamstring) did not participate at practice Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward was forced out of Sunday's game versus Tampa Bay earlier with a hamstring injury, and he's still sitting out to begin Houston's new week of practice. He'll likely have to practice Thursday or Friday to have a shot to suit up in Week 10.

Ward (hamstring) is out for the remainder of Sunday's matchup with the Buccaneers.

M.J. Stewart replaced Ward and suffered a shoulder injury, opening the door for DeAndre Houston-Carson to play strong safety. Ward recorded two tackles before exiting. The safety has 35 on the season to go with two passes defensed and a forced fumble.

Ward has exited Sunday's game against the Buccaneers with a hamstring injury.

Ward was replaced by M.J. Stewart, who subsequently suffered a shoulder injury, now leaving the Texans depleted at safety. In their absence, DeAndre Houston-Carson has stepped in at strong safety. Ward is considered questionable to return.

Ward recorded seven tackles (five solo) in the Texans' Week 6 win over the Saints Sunday.

After missing the first two games of the season with a hip injury, Ward has started the last four contests and has 25 tackles and one pass breakup to his name in that span. 32-year-old Ward was one of the Niners to follow coach DeMeco Ryans to Houston.

Ward had eight tackles in Sunday's 37-17 win over the Jaguars in Week 3.

Ward, a team captain that missed the first two weeks with a hip injury, helped stabilize a defense that was missing Jalen Pitre (chest) and Derek Stingley (hamstring). One noticeable area of improvement was in third-down percentage, limiting Jacksonville to just five of 13 third-down conversions.

Ward (hip) was a full participant at practice Thursday.

After he missed both of Houston's first two games, it looks like Ward will be available to suit up for Week 3. He figures to start at safety at Jacksonville.

Ward (hip) was able to practice Wednesday, Drew Dougherty of the Texans' official site reports.

It's not clear if Ward was able to practice in full, but he did partake in individual drills. Either way, it's a sign of progression in the veteran safety's recovery, as he's missed each of the team's first two games and had yet to practice since suffering the injury. He should still be considered questionable for Sunday against the Jaguars.

The Texans ruled out Ward (hip) for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Ward already missed the team's Week 1 loss to Baltimore and will now have to wait at least another week before making his debut with the Texans. With Jalen Pitre (chest) also ruled out, Houston will be without both starting safeties, and M.J. Stewart and Eric Murray will likely start instead.

Ward (hip) is not practicing Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward was unable to suit up Week 1 against the Ravens and appears to still not be ready to take the field. The veteran safety will likely need to return to practice Thursday if he's going to suit up against the Colts on Sunday. However, if he's unable to, Eric Murray should get the start at strong safety again.

Ward (hip) has been ruled out for Sunday's season opener against the Ravens, Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Ward was previously deemed day-to-day with a groin injury, but the team's injury report lists him out with a hip injury. The veteran safety, who followed head coach DeMeco Ryans from San Francisco to Houston in the offseason, will get his next opportunity to make his Texans debut in Week 2 against the Colts.

Ward (groin) is considered day-to-day prior to the Texans' Week 1 matchup with the Ravens on Sunday, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Ward did not practice Wednesday as he continues to nurse a groin injury that has been bothering him this past week. The safety still has two more chances to return to practice ahead of Houston's regular season opener with Baltimore.

Ward did not practice Monday due to a groin injury, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Ward recently underwent a dental procedure and has been managing a lingering groin injury. The Texans are counting on the veteran safety to handle starting role in Sunday's regular-season opener at Baltimore, meaning his status needs to be mentored closely. If Ward can't go Week 1, Lamar Jackson and his revamped receiving corps could have an easier time airing it out against depth options Eric Murray and M.J. Stewart.

Ward agreed to a contract with the Texans on Monday, DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN reports.

Ward's deal won't become official until the new league year begins Wednesday, and the exact terms have yet to be disclosed. The veteran safety spent his first nine seasons in San Francisco, racking up 200 tackles over the past three campaigns. Ward will reunite with DeMeco Ryans, who will serve as Houston's head coach after spending the previous two seasons as the 49ers' defensive coordinator.

Ward finished with 50 tackles (38 solo), three interceptions and a forced fumble across 12 regular-season games with the 49ers in 2022.

Ward turned in another solid season in red and gold, this time playing both free safety and nickel corner. The 31-year-old was not thrilled about the position change, as he felt he should remain at free safety over Tashaun Gipson, according to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area. Ward has proven effective at both safety and corner during his nine-year tenure with the 49ers, but it sounds like he is ready to test the free agent market as a free safety.

Ward notched eight tackles (six solo), a pass defensed and forced a fumble in Sunday's 35-7 win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Ward's eight stops were his highest on the season, as were his 68 defensive snaps. The veteran safety has had an up and down year, including missing multiple weeks due to a broken hand. He'll work to fill the stat sheet again Thursday against the Seahawks.

Ward (hand) is not on this week's injury report and will play Sunday against Kansas City, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

After being activated from injured reserve prior to Week 5's contest against Carolina, Ward broke his hand in the first quarter and was forced to miss the remainder of that game as well as all of Week 6. However, he was able to log a trio of limited practice sessions this week and will return Sunday to help try to slow down a potent Chiefs passing attack.

Ward (hand) was a limited participant in the 49ers' practice Wednesday, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

Ward missed the first four games of the season while on IR, and he broke his left hand while making his season debut against the Panthers in Week 5. While the 31-year-old underwent surgery last Tuesday and is expected to be evaluated again this Saturday, it appears he could be nearing a return as soon as Sunday's game against the Chiefs. It will be worth monitoring Ward's status as he progresses through practice Thursday and Friday as he approaches this subsequent injury evaluation.

Ward underwent successful surgery on his left hand Tuesday and will be evaluated in 10 days, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Ward broke his left hand during the team's win over the Panthers in Week 6 and will be sidelined for multiple weeks, though it's unclear if he'll land on IR. Per Wagoner, following his surgery Tuesday, Ward was fitted for a cast that the team hopes will allow him to return to game action after just a few weeks, but he won't be evaluated again for 10 days.

Ward will have a surgery to repair a broken left hand Tuesday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

San Francisco will wait until that surgery is complete to project a timeline for Ward's return. He could potentially play in a cast, but Tashaun Gipson will continue to start in Ward's absence until the veteran safety is ready to play again.

Ward sustained a broken hand during Sunday's win over the Panthers, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Ward exited Sunday's game in the first quarter and was unable to return. A timetable for his return isn't yet clear, but Tashaun Gipson should see increased playing time if Ward is sidelined.

Ward (hand) will not return Sunday against the Panthers, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Ward suffered the injury in the first quarter and had not tallied any stats before exiting. In his absence, Tashaun Gipson should handle free-safety duties.

The 49ers activated Ward from injured reserve Saturday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Ward is in line to make his season debut in Week 5 after missing the first four games of the season while on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. The veteran safety recorded 77 tackles and two interceptions last season -- both career highs -- and figures to garner a major role in the 49ers secondary moving forward.

The 49ers designated Ward (hamstring) to return from the injured reserve list Wednesday.

Verrett will now have a 21-day window to practice before returning to the team's active roster; otherwise, he will be forced to go on season-ending IR. The 31-year-old cornerback has been sidelined since suffering a season-ending torn ACL in Week 1 of last season. Verrett recorded 60 tackles, 10 passes defended and two interceptions while playing 802 defensive snaps over 13 games in 2020, and he'll likely slot into a prominent reserve role behind starters Charvarius Ward and Emmanuel Moseley this season.

The 49ers placed Ward (hamstring) on injured reserve Wednesday.

As expected, Ward will start the season on injured reserve after suffering a significant hamstring injury towards the end of training camp. He'll be forced to miss at least the first four games of the regular season, but when he returns, he should reclaim a sizable role in San Francisco's secondary.

Ward (hamstring) will start the season on the 49ers' injured reserve, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Ward injured his hamstring "pretty badly" according to head coach Kyle Shanahan at Sunday's practice, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. After coming off the best season of his career last season, the safety must now attempt to recover and rehab quickly, in hopes of making it back to the team as fast as possible.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Ward suffered a "pretty bad" hamstring injury during Sunday's practice and there's a chance he'll miss Week 1 of the regular season, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

This is a tough break for Ward, who's coming off his best statistical season of his career. His increased production was likely a product of his ability to stay on the field for 16 games after periodically being sidelined by injuries to start his career. If he's forced to miss regular season contests, expect Tarvarius Moore to step into an expanded role to start the season.

Ward wrapped up 77 tackles (51 solo) with six pass defenses, two interceptions and a touchdown across 16 games with the 49ers in 2021.

Ward has always been a skilled free safety, but he managed to finally combine his strong play with a healthy regular season. Barring any drastic roster changes this offseason, the 30-year-old should enter the final year of his contract in San Francisco as the team's starting free safety in 2022.

The 49ers activated Ward (illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday.

Ward landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday after he tested positive for the virus. However, he'll now be cleared to rejoin the team and will be available for Sunday's Week 18 matchup against the Rams.

Ward (undisclosed) was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday.

Ward played every defensive snap during Sunday's 23-7 win over the Texans and had four tackles (two solo). He's now on the COVID-19 list but could still clear the protocols and play Sunday against the Rams.

Ward (quadriceps) is active for Monday's game against the Rams.

Ward missed last week's loss to the Cardinals and was questionable for Monday Night Football, but he's been cleared to take the field. The 30-year-old should reclaim his starting role at free safety for the 49ers.

Ward (quadriceps) is questionable for Monday's game against the Rams, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Ward returned to practice in a limited capacity Friday and Saturday, but he'll still carry an injury designation for Week 10. If he's forced to miss a second straight game Monday, his absence would leave San Francisco very shorthanded in the secondary.

Ward (quadriceps) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice.

Ward has been nursing a quad strain since he sustained the injury in Week 8 versus the Bears. He was able to play through it in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals, but his non-participation at Thursday's practice indicates his status still needs to be monitored going forward.

Ward (quadriceps) will not play Sunday against Arizona, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Ward picked up the injury Sunday against the Bears, and it was originally thought he might be able to play in Week 8. This is a big blow to the 49ers secondary that is already missing multiple pieces. Tavon Wilson will likely see a large increase in snaps.

Ward (quadriceps) has a small chance to return in time for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

Lombardi notes that San Francisco isn't optimistic about Ward's prospects of returning in time for Week 9, stating the more likely scenario is that he remains sidelined for 1-to-2 weeks. He picked up a Grade 1 quad strain in Sunday's matchup against Chicago.

Ward (quadriceps) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's contest against the Bears, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Ward registered six tackles before leaving the 49ers' Week 8 matchup with the Bears early. Kai Nacua will likely see increased snaps for the remainder of Sunday's contest.

Ward recorded 73 tackles (45 solo) and forced two fumbles across 14 games with the 49ers in 2020.

The 14 games were the closest to a full season Ward has logged in a single season since 2015, and his 984 total snaps were a new career high. The oft-injured safety's newfound ability to stay on the field has allowed him to finally showcase his skills, and he was rewarded with a three-year contract extension this past offseason. As a coverage safety in a zone-heavy defensive scheme -- which is likely to be featured again under new defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans -- Ward isn't going to post gaudy tackle totals or record very many sacks or interceptions, which limits his appeal in IDP formats despite currently playing the best ball of his career.

Ward (concussion) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against Seattle, John Boyle of the Seahawks' official site reports.

Ward sustained his concussion during a Week 15 loss to the Cowboys, and he was deemed unavailable last Sunday as San Francisco upset Arizona on the road. A trio of full practices from Ward this week indicated he was in line for his 14th start of the season against Seattle. Now, the 29-year-old's return remains imminent as San Francisco's secondary prepares for a matchup against Russell Wilson and Co.

Ward (concussion) was a full participant at Wednesday's practice, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

It's unclear if Ward has cleared the league's five-step concussion protocol. He's certainly on the right track for Sunday's game against the Seahawks after Wednesday's full practice. If the 29-year-old can, indeed, play, he'll return to a starting role at free safety. Ward will look to add to the career-high 69 tackles he's accumulated through 13 games.

Ward (concussion) has been ruled out ahead of Saturday's game against the Cardinals.

Ward's concussion forced him to exit during the first half of last Sunday's loss to the Cowboys, and it's now confirmed the head injury will keep him out of the Week 16 lineup. Given Ward's confirmed second absence of 2020, the next man up at free safety would be Tarvarius Moore (knee), if he himself proves capable of overcoming a questionable designation.

Ward (concussion) didn't participate in Wednesday's practice.

Ward is in the league's five-step concussion protocol. The 29-year-old has one more practice to get on the field, but he's trending in the wrong direction for Saturday's game versus the Cardinals. If Ward's in fact out, expect Tarvarius Moore (knee) to slot in as the 49ers' starting free safety.

Ward won't return to Sunday's game at Dallas due to a concussion, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

The 29-year-old sustained the injury during the second half while attempting a tackle on CeeDee Lamb. Tarvarius Moore should step in at free safety for the 49ers with Ward in the concussion protocol.

Ward (quadriceps) is active for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

The 29-year-old missed Week 7 with the quadriceps injury and was questionable for this week, but he's good to go for Sunday's divisional matchup. Ward will reclaim the starting spot at free safety, while Marcell Harris or Tarvarius Moore fill in at strong safety for Jaquiski Tartt (groin).

Ward (quadriceps) is questionable for Sunday's game versus the Seahawks, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Ward suffered a quadriceps injury in this past Sunday's win over New Englad, and while he started the practice week as a non-participant, the veteran safety logged consecutive limited sessions to close out the week. This gives Ward a decent chance to suit up Sunday, and he'll start at free safety if he's deemed active 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. If he's held out, however, Tarvarius Moore likely will start in his place.

Ward (quadriceps) was a limited participant during Thursday's practice session, Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee reports.

The 49ers' starting free safety was injured in practice last week and subsequently made unavailable for a Week 7 win over New England, but his upgraded practice status provides optimism for Sunday's matchup against Seattle. In six appearances thus far this season Ward has collected just one pass deflection, though his 32 tackles put him on trajectory to compete with his career high of 65.

Ward (quadriceps) didn't participate at Wednesday's practice, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

The 29-year-old picked up the injury during practice last week and sat out Sunday's win over the Patriots. Ward likely will need to practice in some capacity Thursday or Friday to have a chance of retaking the field this weekend.

Ward has been ruled out for Sunday's game at New England with a strained quadriceps, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

The 29-year-old sustained the injury during Thursday's practice and won't be able to play Sunday with the quick turnaround. Tarvarius Moore is in line for the start at free safety in Ward's absence.

Ward made seven tackles (five solo) in Sunday's 43-17 loss to the Dolphins.

It was a tough outing for the 49ers' banged-up secondary, as Dolphins quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick threw for 350 yards and three touchdowns. Ward is partly accountable for that, but he had a solid day for fantasy purposes and played every defensive snap.

Ward (wrist) was a full participant during Thursday's practice, Keiana Martin of the 49ers' official site reports.

Ward popped up on the injury report with the wrist issue Wednesday, as he failed to suit up in practice before he was a full participant Thursday. This is good news for the 49ers, as they'll have their starting free safety for Week 5 now that Ward appears fully healthy.

Ward (wrist) was a non-participant during Wednesday's practice, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

It's unclear when Ward picked up the wrist injury, as he racked up four tackles across 71 total snaps during Sunday's loss to the Eagles. Ward will likely have to turn in some practice time if he wants a chance to suit up in Week 5's game against Miami. If he's forced to miss action, Tarvarius Moore would be in line for the start at free safety.

Ward is re-signing with the 49ers on Monday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM Radio reports.

The 28-year-old expressed an interest in returning to the 49ers early in the offseason if he could remain at safety, and the team is apparently happy to oblige. Ward didn't have an interception in 13 regular-season games last season, but he had a career-high 65 tackles (51 solo), one sack and received an 84.9 grade as a safety from Pro Football Focus.

Ward, an unrestricted free agent, said that he is willing to return to San Francisco, but only if he remains a safety, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Ward turned in one of the best campaigns of his six-year career, finishing the regular season with 65 tackles (51 solo), eight passes defended and a sack in 13 games following a preseason finger injury. The 2014 first-round pick served as the team's starting free safety in Robert Saleh's dominant defense after being moved back and forth between safety and corner in previous regimes. Pro Football Focus gave Ward the best grade of his career as a safety (84.9), so it's not surprising that he wants to stick at the position that gave him the most success. The 28-year-old's stipulation could limit his potential suitors in the upcoming free agent market, but he will definitely be in demand, as good coverage safeties are tough to come by, even with Ward's checkered injury history.

Ward (hand) is not on Thursday's injury report, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Ward appears to have gotten fully healthy during the 49ers' bye week. He's on track to make his season debut versus the Browns on Sunday and will likely play a rotational or depth role in San Francisco's secondary.

Ward has been ruled out for Sunday's season opener against Tampa Bay due to a hand injury, Keiana Martin of the 49ers' official site reports.

Ward underwent surgery to repair a broken finger Wednesday. While we know that the 28-year-old will miss Week 1, it's unclear how much time he'll miss after that. Ward seems to have a tight grasp on the starting free safety role in San Francisco's secondary, but it seems that Tarvarius Moore will start in his place for now.