It was all business, nothing personal.
The bottom line was that the Steelers were over the salary cap and it freed up much needed money. Several players already restructured their contracts during the offseason due to the salary problem.
Even though Ward was never given a chance to restructure his contract, his best years were behind him and he was hardly used in 2011. The Steelers didn't feel the need to have to bring him back.
NOTE: Hines Ward officially announced his retirement on March 20, 2012.
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1998 Hines Ward played for the Steelers from 1998-2011. He retired on March 20, 2012.
No. Hines Ward played his entire career for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He retired on March 20, 2012.
Hines Ward, Aaron Smith, Chris Hoke and James Farrior.
In 2007, Hines Ward led the Steelers in receptions with 71.
In 1996, tight end John Farquhar wore number 86 prior to Hines Ward. Click on the link below to see all the players that wore #86 for the Steelers.