Yet another guy who'll never have to buy a beer in any Steeler bar anywhere in the world. We'll see you in Canton, Mr. Ward.
From the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:
Tearful Ward calls it a career
Wide receiver Hines Ward, one of the most beloved and decorated players in Steelers history, announced his retirement during a tearful goodbye today at team headquarters.
Ward, who turned 36 earlier this month, had been adamant on continuing his career after the Steelers released him. He had a change of heart, Ward said, because he can't "fathom" putting on another team's uniform.
The decision allows Ward to retire as a Steeler, 14 years after the team took him in the third round of the NFL draft. He finishes his career with 1,000 career catches, 12,083 receiving yards, two Super Bowl championships and a Super Bowl MVP award.
"To me it's not about going out and playing one or two more years for another organization," Ward said. "Deep down I know my heart wouldn't be in it."
Ward said he still has a passion for the game and a belief that he can play it. He said he drew some interest from other teams, but he decided to call it a career after consulting former Steelers running back and good friend Jerome Bettis and reading countless messages from fans who didn't want to see him in another uniform.
"You guys have given me the best years of my life and I will never forget that," Ward said of Steelers fans. "I'm happy with my decision. I don't have any regrets."
Bettis, outside linebacker James Harrison and defensive ends Brett Keisel and Aaron Smith were among Ward's former teammates who attended his emotional farewell. Steelers president Art Rooney II, general manager Kevin Colbert and coach Mike Tomlin also watched as Ward labored through tears at the outset of the 25-minute news conference, one that he opened by reading from prepared notes.
Ward raised the bar for all Steelers receivers after he made four consecutive Pro Bowls (2002-05) and put up the kind of numbers that may never be surpassed in Pittsburgh.
Ward caught his 1,000th career pass in the Steelers regular-season finale, making him one of eight players in NFL history to accomplish that feat. Ward also is one of just 19 NFL players to achieve the 12,000-yard milestone.
His 86 touchdowns are second in Steelers history to Franco Harris. That total matches the only number he wore during his NFL career.
Ward's value to the Steelers extended beyond sheer numbers.
He is widely considered one of the best blocking wide receivers of all time, and he served as an offensive captain for seven consecutive seasons.
"I don't have to prove nothing to anybody," Ward said.
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