49ers Eye Michigan Star CB Will Johnson as Charvarius Ward’s Replacement in New Mock Draft

The San Francisco 49ers have undergone a dramatic roster shakeup this offseason, losing key players through trades and free agency. Among the biggest departures? All-Pro cornerback Charvarius Ward, who signed with the Indianapolis Colts, leaving a major void in San Francisco’s secondary.

Now, in a new A to Z Sports mock draft, the 49ers may have found the perfect replacement—Michigan star Will Johnson, a player once considered a surefire top prospect but who could unexpectedly slide on draft night.

A Gift for the 49ers? Will Johnson’s Stock Takes a Hit

Johnson has long been viewed as one of college football’s most dominant cornerbacks, playing a major role in Michigan’s 2023 national championship run. However, the 2024 season didn’t go as planned. A lingering injury limited him to just six games, leading to what some analysts call prospect fatigue.

Still, Johnson made every snap count—he snagged two interceptions, both of which he returned for touchdowns, the most in the entire FBS that year. Despite his shortened season, his elite ball skills and lockdown coverage ability remain undeniable.

Mock Draft: 49ers Land a Steal

According to A to Z Sports, if Johnson falls past the top picks, the 49ers should jump at the opportunity.

“The 49ers have suffered multiple losses to their roster this offseason. One of which was seeing star corner Charvarius Ward leave in free agency to join the Indianapolis Colts,” the report states. “Rumors believe Will Johnson could fall farther than expected, so the 49ers take this chance to replace Ward with one of the best CBs in college football over the past few years.”

A physically gifted 6’2”, 202-pound corner, Johnson has the size, speed, and instincts to be a day-one starter for the 49ers. His arrival would help ease the sting of losing Ward and bring fresh energy to San Francisco’s secondary.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Fit?

The 49ers have serious decisions to make as they approach the draft, and adding a young, high-upside defensive back like Johnson could be a game-changer. With a defense already featuring Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, and Talanoa Hufanga, plugging in a potential lockdown corner could solidify the unit for years to come.

Would you take Will Johnson if he falls to the 49ers? Or should they target another position in Round 1? Sound off, Niner Faithful!