Steelers to Release Wide Receiver Hines Ward [Video]

Hines Ward’s constant smile while wearing the black and yellow has been a staple in Pittsburgh for the last 14 years. After today it is not likely that Pittsburgh fans will see it again.

At least not in a Steelers uniform.

Steelers president Art Rooney II announced on the official Steelers website that the wide receiver, who won every conceivable award while in Pittsburgh, would be cut from the team within two weeks.

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.”

A four-time Pro Bowl selection and MVP of the 2006 Super Bowl, Ward will finish his Steelers career with 1,000 catches, 12,083 yards and 85 receiving touchdowns. He helped Pittsburgh to three AFC championships and a pair of Super Bowl wins.

Ward was also feature and won the reality tv show “Dancing With The Stars”

Ward does not think it is time for him to retire though.

While saying “this isn’t how I wanted this chapter of my career to end,” Ward vowed to return for a 15th season next fall.

“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,” Ward said in a statement.

There were reports that ward was willing to take as pay cut to continue to work with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Do you think Hines Ward should retire or go for another season?

Click Here to watch a video of Hines Ward in action