Indianapolis Colts former Pro Bowl veteran cornerback Charvarius Ward indicated to members of the local media on Monday morning that he’s contemplating retirement this offseason—after suffering three documented concussions this year, during his debut campaign in Indy (via The Athletic’s James Boyd):
Obviously, his initial season didn’t go as either the Colts and Ward initially envisioned during 2025, because he was so limited in availability by re-occurring and concerning concussions.
During 7 starts this past season, Ward recorded 25 tackles (17 solo), 7 passes defensed, and a fumble recovery.
Despite the head injuries, Ward still graded out as PFF’s 9th best cornerback overall with a +77.1 overall grade, coincidentally ranked just one spot ahead of teammate Sauce Gardner in their final season positional rankings.
In 2025, he was targeted 37 times for 21 receptions (56.8% completion rate), 286 total receiving yards (13.6 yards per reception average), 7 pass breakups, and 0 receiving touchdowns allowed in coverage (and 0 interceptions).
When fully healthy, Ward was graded out as a Top 5 cornerback overall by PFF. It was only when he returned from his 2nd concussion in Weeks 12-14 that his coverage skills seemingly dipped. Ultimately, he suffered his 3rd concussion in Week 14 at Jacksonville and was placed on injured reserve for the second—and final time in 2025.
Regarding his current Colts’ contract, Ward is signed through the 2027 season.
Next year, the 29-year-old cornerback is due a $20.2 million cap hit (with $18.33M in dead money). How much the Colts could save salary cap wise if Ward elects retirement could depend on how much of his $20 million signing bonus they make look to recoup after-the-fact.
At this point, Ward has to do what’s best for himself personally and his family, while clearly weighing life after football—and what’s most important.
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