Deommodore Lenoir extension all but means Charvarius Ward is gone in 2025

The 49ers made their choice between Charvarius Ward and Deommodore Lenoir, extending the latter, meaning Ward likely departs in 2025.

The San Francisco 49ers are going to have to pinch pennies over the next few years, thanks largely to what'll be a massive contract extension for quarterback Brock Purdy.

With Purdy poised to become one of the NFL's highest-paid players when he becomes eligible for a contract extension in 2025, the Niners are going to endure the hard reality of roster shake-ups and cap-space-saving moves across the roster.

Speaking of extensions, San Francisco aimed to get ahead of some potential 2025 turnover by locking up one of its star defenders, cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, by signing him to a five-year deal worth up to $92 million.

It's a strong move. Lenoir, 25 years old, has improved steadily since he was drafted in Round 5 back in 2021 out of Oregon. And it's not hard to argue he's the 49ers' best corner this season.

However, by extending Lenoir, the Niners effectively set the stage to say goodbye to another this upcoming offseason.

49ers likely have to let Charvarius Ward walk in 2025

In 2022, San Francisco committed big money to another cornerback, Charvarius Ward, who finally assumed that No. 1 spot on the depth chart the team so struggled with after former corner Richard Sherman graced the ranks.

Ward had success, named a second-team All-Pro in 2023 while notching a league-high 23 pass breakups.

A free agent to be in 2025, though, Ward made it clear he wouldn't accept a hometown discount to stay in the Bay Area, and the soon-to-be cash-strapped 49ers were likely going to have to decide between Lenoir and Ward for long-term plans.

The Niners committed to Lenoir, meaning the 28-year-old Ward is likely going to hit the open market this offseason.

NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco described San Francisco's choice:

"The move signals the difficulty for the 49ers to retain Ward beyond this season. Ward, who was selected to the NFC Pro Bowl team last season, likely will cash in with a big-money deal in March.

Locking in Lenoir to a long-term contract means he will likely pair with cornerback Renardo Green for several seasons to come."

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The 2024 draft addition of Green signaled that San Francisco was going to move on from one of its two notable cornerbacks the following year, and it seems as if Lenoir and Green will be the future moving forward, leaving Ward as the player whose price tag the 49ers won't be interested in meeting.

That still leaves a void in nickel defenses next year, as the Niners would ideally have a solid third option to either cover the slot or work outside if Lenoir moves in as a nickel back in three-corner formations.

Either way, San Francisco made its choice, and it's not a bad one.

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