Ward ready for test that Rodgers, Jets present 49ers in Week 1

SANTA CLARA — The 49ers open up the 2024 NFL season against future Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and Charvarius Ward is ready for the challenge. The Pro Bowl cornerback is well aware of what the New York Jets play-caller is capable of and is looking forward to facing one of the league's top quarterbacks. "He's a dog," Ward said of Rodgers on Thursday. "Real smart, veteran. "[He] knows what we are running, probably because we are in the same defense that they [have] in New York, but Hall of Famer, one of the best players ever, best quarterback. We are going to have our hands full Week 1, but best against the best for sure." Rodgers only was on the field for four plays in 2023 before suffering a season-ending Achilles injury. The All-Pro did not play at all during the preseason but Ward doesn't need to watch film to know what Rodgers can do with the football in his hands. The 49ers' coaching staff is familiar with the scheme that the Jets run and how Rodgers' abilities can affect the game. Ward is confident that coach Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen will make sure the group is as prepared as possible for the season opener. "We pretty...