Charvarius Ward Bio
Charvarius “Mooney” Ward (born May 16, 1996) is an American professional football cornerback for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2018. Ward has also played for the Kansas City Chiefs, with whom he won Super Bowl LIV, and the San Francisco 49ers.
Early Life and Background
Charvarius Ward was born in McComb, Mississippi. He attended McComb High School, where he had a notable football career. As a senior, he tallied 48 tackles and one interception, earning All-region honors. After high school, Ward enrolled at Hinds Community College, where he continued to develop his skills on the field. During his freshman year, he collected 32 tackles, three interceptions, and five passes defended. He transferred to Middle Tennessee State University for his junior season, where he made significant contributions to the team, including 26 tackles and two interceptions. In his senior year, he played in 13 games, starting in eight, and led the team with 14 passes defended.
Path to American Football
Despite his impressive college performance, Ward went undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft. He did not receive an invitation to the NFL Combine but showcased his talent at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and performed well at Middle Tennessee’s pro day. His strong performance elevated his draft stock, leading to his signing with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent. Ward’s journey in the NFL began with the Cowboys, but he quickly found a home with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he made a significant impact on the team’s defense.
Charvarius Ward Career
Early Career (2018)
Charvarius Ward’s professional career began when he signed with the Dallas Cowboys in April 2018. He competed for a spot on the active roster during training camp but was later traded to the Kansas City Chiefs. Ward made his professional debut on October 1, 2018, against the Denver Broncos, recording three combined tackles. He earned his first career start later that season and finished with 30 combined tackles in his rookie year.
Breakthrough (2019-2021)
Ward’s breakthrough came during the 2019 season when he became a starting cornerback for the Chiefs. He recorded his first career interception against the Oakland Raiders and finished the season with 74 combined tackles and ten passes defended. His performance helped the Chiefs secure a playoff berth, and he played a crucial role in their Super Bowl LIV victory over the San Francisco 49ers, making four combined tackles in the championship game. In the following seasons, Ward continued to excel, earning a reputation as a reliable cornerback.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ward’s signature work includes his performance in Super Bowl LIV, where he contributed to the Chiefs’ victory. He has also achieved notable milestones, including being named a Pro Bowl selection and a Second-team All-Pro in 2023.
Charvarius Ward Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Charvarius Ward has received recognition for his outstanding performances, including nominations for prestigious awards such as the Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections.
Charvarius Ward Awards Won
Charvarius Ward has won several awards during his career, including a Super Bowl championship in 2020 and being named a Second-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection in 2023.
Charvarius Ward Family
Charvarius Ward is married to Monique Cook, and the couple has two children. Their daughter, Amani Joy, was born in 2022 but tragically passed away in 2024 due to health complications. Their son, Charvarius Jr., was born in 2024.
Personal Life
Ward prefers to go by his childhood nickname “Mooney,” which was given to him by his mother. He has expressed a strong commitment to his family and has faced challenges, particularly with the health issues of his daughter. Ward converted to Islam prior to Amani’s surgery, demonstrating his dedication to his faith and family.
