Mooney Ward competing with self as key to 49ers’ secondary

Mooney Ward competing with self as key to 49ers’ secondary originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SANTA CLARA — Charavarius Ward received his first Pro Bowl nod for his performance during the 2023 NFL regular season, but that’s not the only goal the 49ers cornerback has set.

“It’s a good feeling,” Ward said after receiving the news. “It’s always been one of my dreams to be recognized as one of the best so I’m thankful to God, and glad I got to get it done this year.”

Ward has been a standout in San Francisco’s secondary, racking up a league-high 23 pass breakups and a career-high five interceptions. The Middle Tennessee State product’s 63.0 passer rating allowed ranks sixth in the NFL, according to PFF.

Ward credits his growing relationship with his 1-year-old daughter, Amani Joi, as well as defensive coordinator Steve Wilks’ support for his increased production on the field. Wilks’ background with the secondary has been felt throughout the 49ers’ roster.

“He helped my game out a lot,” Mooney said of Wilks. “Every time I walk by him, he tells me I’m a bad MFer. He’s been believing in me all season even when I was getting a lot of flags. He kept saying keep playing your game, and that’s what I’ve been doing.”

In his second season with the 49ers, Ward has become more vocal as a leader not only with the secondary, but for the entire team. Wilks has noticed the the corner’s maturation both on and off the field.

“Just in the details of his technique and then the consistency in which he practices,” Wilks said. “I think you guys heard me say this once this year and calling him out. He’s full speed on a Friday. He’s going to the ground trying to get the ball.

“He made a statement the other day talking to the team when Kyle [Shanahan] had him break it down, which I love. He said, ‘Continue to compete against the man in the mirror.’ That’s what he’s been doing all year. That’s his quote. He’s been competing against…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/mooney-ward-competing-self-key-044317790.html

Author : NBC Sports BayArea

Publish date : 2024-01-10 04:43:17

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