5 Steelers that deserve stronger Hall of Fame consideration

By Russell S. Baxter | Aug 24, 2023, 4:13 PM EDT

TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 01: James Harrison #92 of the Pittsburgh Steelers scores a touchdown after running back an interception for 100 yards in the second quarter against the Arizona Cardinals during Super Bowl XLIII on February 1, 2009 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

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Steelers Hines Ward during Super Bowl XL between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan on February 5, 2006. (Photo by Allen Kee/Getty Images) /

Steelers that deserve stronger Hall of Fame consideration: 3. WR Hines Ward

He’s one of only 14 players in NFL history with at least 1,000 career receptions. However, Hines Ward was far more of a complete football than a wide receiver putting up big numbers. The third-round pick in 1998 from the University of Georgia did so much for Bill Cowher’s team and later, Mike Tomlin’s club. That included a lot of dirty work, which Ward seemed to enjoy.

In 14 seasons with the franchise, he finished with exactly 1,000 catches. That was good for 12,083 yards and 85 touchdown receptions. He also added one rushing touchdown. Ward was named to four Pro Bowls and was part of three Super Bowl teams. The Steelers won two of those clashes and he was named Super Bowl XL Most Valuable Player in the club’s 21-10 over the Seahawks at Ford Field in Detroit.

Speaking of the postseason, he was part of eight Steelers’ playoff teams. He’s tied for seventh in NFL history with 88 catches. Those added up to 1,181 yards and 10 scores in 18 postseason contests.

Perhaps the two things that stand out the most about the hard-working performer is his nose for the first down mark and his blocking prowess. Ward has been a Pro Football Hall of Fame Semifinalist seven times but never a Finalist.

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