Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

[toddjammin]

Art Rooney made the announcement today. Hines, you will be missed.

[Chadman]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

Although we kinda knew it was coming- still leaves that hollow feeling in the stomach.

[Eddie Spaghetti]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

what a warrior.

just loved watching this man play football.

[LordVile]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

cheers!
my fav STEELER of all time.... thanks for the inspiration.. gona buy me another Ward Jersey when they sell em' on the cheap...

[phillyesq]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

Although we kinda knew it was coming- still leaves that hollow feeling in the stomach.

If Hines wants to spend a year in AZ with the old gang, I can handle that, but otherwise, I hope that he walks away.

I don't think I'll ever enjoy watching another WR as much as I enjoyed Hines.

[hawaiiansteel]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

Although we kinda knew it was coming- still leaves that hollow feeling in the stomach.

that's exactly how i first felt upon hearing of the official announcement this morning.

Hines, you will be missed (except by Crash, of course)

[JAR]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

A sad day, I hope he just retires a Steeler.

The Steelers announced today that they will sever ties with receiver Hines Ward.

"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," Steelers president Art Rooney II said in a report on the team's website. "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."



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[Steelgal]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

Got a tweet announcing it. Definately a sad day for Steeler nation, but most knew it was coming. Hopefully he retires, but something tells me he still wants to play.

[Steelgal]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

Across the bottom on NFLN, there's quotes from HInes thanking the Rooneys, teammates, coaches and fans. He also said he's still interested in playing in the NFL next season.

[Dee Dub]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

It is sad but this is what is best for the Pittsburgh Steelers. This makes them better. They need to do the same with James Farrior.

I do not want to see a 37 year, 8 month old LB on the field next year. He is done.

[Sugar]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

A class act and a great player. I'm sure his locker room leadership will be missed and hope that the young guys can step up.

[RuthlessBurgher]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

I will be sure to wear my Ward #86 to Heinz to honor Hines for the home opener this year.

Thanks for everything, Psycho Ward.







I expect the team to keep Wallace and bring back Cotchery, but if they are unable to do those things, I'd imagine that the team would be bring Ward back to "Hines" Field again.

[Steelgal]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

John Clayton just spoke on ESPN and talked about the Hines release. He said there's also a few other cuts expected, but didn't speculate who. Don't know if he has any inside information or just guessing.

[hawaiiansteel]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

It is sad but this is what is best for the Pittsburgh Steelers. This makes them better. They need to do the same with James Farrior.

I do not want to see a 37 year, 8 month old LB on the field next year. He is done.

who do you suggest we draft to take Farrior's place at ILB?

[LordVile]

Re: Per Art Rooney, Hines Ward will be released

Via Hines Twitter: 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.