Hines Ward

WR Hines Ward of the Pittsburgh Steelers is a great example of a player whose skills started to decline, but was ultimately released because of his age and salary cap impact.

Ward holds just about every Steelers receiving record, but at the age of 36 was considered too old and expensive at $4 million for the 2012 season. The team was looking to go with younger players.

He spent his entire career with the Steelers after being selelcted in the 3rd round of the 1998 draft. He finished his Steelers career with 1,000 receptions for 12,083 yards and 85 TD's.

He said he wants to return for a 15th season. I think some team will sign him for at least a look at training camp. He made a career out of being one of the most physical receivers the game has ever seen. He was such a devastating blocker that the league named a rule after him. He could take the punishment as well as give it out.

Ward joins the list of older players discarded by their team because of their age and financial constrictions. I hope he continues his career and add to his resume for the eventual trip to Canton.