Hines Ward will be cut loose from the Pittsburgh Steelers according to team president Art Rooney II.
After 14 seasons of suiting up in black-and-gold, the wide receiver will have to find another team if he plans to remain in the NFL
Rooney 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 year. 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.”
The four-time Pro Bowler and 2006 Super Bowl MVP has an impressive record of 1,000 catches, 12,083 yards and 85 receiving touchdowns. During his tenure the team won three AFC championships and two Super Bowls.
The former Dancing with the Stars winner released a statement: “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.”
He continued, “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.”
The athlete was relegated to the sidelines for much of the past season with only 46 catches for 381 yards and two scores.
Prior to the start of the 2011 season Ward was arrested in Georgia on a charge of DUI. He pleaded guilty to reckless driving earlier this month and was given a year of probation and fined $2,000. He was also ordered to complete 80 hours of community service and undergo an alcohol evaluation.
Photos: WENN