The Pittsburgh Steelers have outperformed expectations in 2024, currently sitting at 8-3 and leading the AFC North as the season progresses. Despite a narrow 24-19 loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 12, the team remains focused on maintaining momentum, with a critical Week 13 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals looming at Paycor Stadium.
While the Steelers boast one of the NFL’s most complete rosters, there are still areas needing improvement, particularly at cornerback. Rookie Joey Porter Jr. has been a standout, showing promise as a rising star, but the team struggles to find consistent support in the secondary. Veteran corner Donte Jackson, despite occasional flashes of excellence, has been inconsistent during his first season with Pittsburgh, leaving the team vulnerable in key moments.
To address this need, general manager Omar Khan will likely explore options to strengthen the cornerback position during the offseason. Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine has identified San Francisco 49ers defensive back Charvarius Ward as a potential solution. Ward’s contract with the 49ers is set to void at the end of the season, making him an attractive target for the Steelers. Though he would likely command a high price, a short-term deal could be a smart move to solidify Pittsburgh’s defense and elevate the team’s competitive edge.
Ward has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s most reliable cornerbacks. In 2023, he delivered a standout performance, recording a career-high five interceptions and leading the league with 23 passes defended. His efforts earned him Pro Bowl honors and a second-team All-Pro selection. While Ward’s 2024 stats aren’t as eye-catching, he remains a dependable defender, allowing just a 53% completion rate and an 86.5 passer rating when targeted. At 28 years old, Ward has demonstrated durability and consistency throughout his career, with few significant injuries impacting his play.
Adding Ward to the roster would provide the Steelers with a formidable pairing in the secondary alongside Joey Porter Jr. The acquisition would likely require financial adjustments, but Pittsburgh is well-positioned to make it work, with over $57 million in projected cap space heading into the offseason, according to Spotrac. Given Ward’s value, his asking price is unlikely to be unreasonable, making this move a viable option for Khan and the Steelers’ front office.
Although the 49ers have relied heavily on Ward in recent seasons, their recent $92 million extension for cornerback Deommodore Lenoir suggests Ward’s time in San Francisco may be nearing its end. For Pittsburgh, this creates an opportunity to bring in a proven veteran who can address a critical roster need and bolster their already elite defense.
