3. Re-signing Jimmie Ward
The 49ers re-signed Ward last offseason to a one-year deal in a somewhat surprising move. The decision paid off. Ward hurt himself in OTAs, but was available for the final 13 games plus the playoffs, and he played virtually every snap in his 16 contests. Back at his natural free safety spot, Ward turned in an outstanding season in the back end of the 49ers’ secondary. He was the fourth-highest graded 49ers defender by Pro Football Focus, as well as their second-best run defender, and second-best player in coverage. Ward is a key reason the 49ers were the best defense in the league at limiting big plays, and replacing him wouldn’t have been easy. Getting him on a three-year, $28 million contract could wind up being a bargain if he turns in three years like the one he had in 2019.