Pittsburgh Steelers To Release Hines Ward

The Pittsburgh Steelers have announced that they will part ways with long-time wide receiver Hines Ward. Steelers president Art Rooney II said:

"“We had a conversation today with Hines Ward and informed him that we plan to release him of his contract prior to the start of the 2012 NFL calendar yea. Hines has been an integral part of our success since we drafted him in 1998 and we will forever be grateful for what he has helped us achieve. He has meant so much to this organization, both on and off the field, and we appreciate his efforts over the past 14 years. Hines’ accomplishments are numerous, and he will always be thought of as one of the all-time great Steelers. We wish him nothing but the best.”"

The move really comes as no surprise. Ward is no longer the same player that he was when he won Super Bowl XL MVP. Ward will leave the Steelers after 14 seasons as the all-time leader in receptions (1,000), receiving yards (12,083) and receiving touchdowns (85). During his time in Pittsburgh, Ward was named to four Pro Bowls.

Ward has previously said that he is not ready to retire, so he could gauge the free agent market for some interest. If there is no interest, it will be time for Ward to hang it up after a very impressive career.

Here is a statement from Hines Ward on the release:

"This isn’t how I wanted this chapter of my career to end. I did everything in my power to remain a Steeler and finish what I started here 14 years ago. I want to thank the organization, my teammates and coaches and everyone who made my run as a Steeler the best years of my life. To Mr. Rooney, thank you for allowing me to play for one of the greatest organizations in the world. To my fans and in particular, Steeler Nation, thank you for your support and all the great memories. I gave my heart and soul for you every down and I will always bleed black and gold. I do feel that I still have more football left in me and I am looking forward to playing in the NFL, again, this upcoming season."

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