The 49ers picked Norther Illinois S Jimmie Ward in the 1st round of the NFL draft.  NFL Network's Mike Mayock called Ward a "natural centerfielder" who's not afraid to come down in the box.  "He answered the bell every game in college," Mayock added.  Ward should be able to beat out veteran free-agent addition Antoine Bethea to start next to S Eric Reid, last year's 1st-rounder.  Ward looks like a better IDP bet by virtue of his in-the-box play.

Niners S Jimmie Ward (quad) is active for tonight's game against the Rams. He returns after missing Week 9 with the injury.

Niners S Jimmie Ward (quad) is active for today's game against the Seahawks. He'll take his position back from Tarvarius Moore and carries upside against pass-heavy Seattle.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that the 49ers have agreed to a 3-year, $28.5 million deal with S Jimmie Ward. The 28-year-old -- until mid-July -- is coming off the healthiest and strongest season among his 1st 6 in the league. In addition to staying on the field, Ward also settled in to a higher percentage of safety snaps than he played in 2018. Ward combines that role with some valuable slot-corner exposure to present IDP upside beyond last year's mediocre production.

49ers S Jimmie Ward (hamstring) is active and will make his season debut today against the Seahawks. He sat out the opener with the injury. Ward will carry upside at full strength, but it's too soon to trust him in IDP lineups -- especially in a negative matchup for DB scoring. His return casts doubt on Jaquiski Tartt's usability in IDP lineups as well.

Niners DB Jimmie Ward is out for today's game against the Panthers, as expected. He entered the weekend doubtful with a hamstring injury. Ward will make for a risky IDP option until he gets through a game healthy.