ESPN’s Seth Walder handed out offseason grades for each team. When it came to the Indianapolis Colts, Walder was a fan of the moves GM Chris Ballard made. His favorite move of the bunch, however, was the signing of free agent cornerback Charvarius Ward.
“The Ward deal (three years at $18 million per year) was strong,” wrote Walder. “Ward has allowed 1.0 yards per coverage snap (better than average) or better in five of the past six seasons, per NFL Next Gen Stats.”
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Ward was an All-Pro during the 2023 season. That year he allowed a completion rate of 54% while coming away with five interceptions and 17 pass breakups, per PFF.
Ward is also an excellent fit for Lou Anarumo’s defensive scheme. He is comfortable covering a variety of wide receiver skill sets, has had strong ball production, and Ward has no problem being left on an island. In fact, Anarumo has already mentioned that we could see Ward shadowing the opponent’s top wideout if that’s what the game plan calls for.
“He’s been a really good player,” said Anarumo of Ward. “A really consistent corner in our league for a long time. He can matchup on the best receivers, he’s got length, he guards bigger guys but he’s quick enough to handle short, faster guys, and he’s a good tackler. He’s a full package, for sure.”
Beyond the production and schematic fit, Ward brings winning experience to the Colts’ defense–an element that is missing–having appeared in two Super Bowls, winning one of them.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts’ signing CB Charvarius Ward named most ‘liked’ offseason move