Ranking the top 25 wide receivers in NFL history…
17. Hines Ward
Drafted in the third round (92nd overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1998 out of the University of Georgia, Ward transitioned from a college quarterback to a versatile NFL wide receiver, quickly becoming a key contributor despite modest early stats.
Over 14 seasons exclusively with the Steelers, Ward amassed 1,000 receptions, 12,083 yards and 85 touchdowns, setting franchise records in all three categories at retirement (later surpassed).
His breakout 2002 campaign featured career highs of 112 catches, 1,329 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors for the second straight year. Ward achieved four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons from 2001-2004 and was a three-time team MVP. He played a pivotal role in Pittsburgh’s championship runs, earning Super Bowl XL MVP honors in 2005 with five catches for 123 yards and a touchdown in a 21-10 win over Seattle.
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In Super Bowl XLIII (2008), he contributed despite a sprained MCL, helping secure a 27-23 victory over Arizona, and appeared in Super Bowl XLV (2010), catching seven passes for 78 yards and a score in a loss to Green Bay.
Ward’s career totals rank him among the NFL’s elite, with 1,000 receptions making him the eighth player to reach that milestone. He retired in 2012 after becoming the Steelers’ all-time leader in receptions, yards and touchdown catches.
Ward’s standout attributes included his durability—playing without an ACL in his left knee due to a childhood injury—and exceptional blocking skills, often pancaking defenders to open running lanes. Ward’s playing style was gritty and multifaceted: a sure-handed possession receiver who excelled in route-running, yards after catch and physical blocking, earning him the label of one of the league’s best blocking wideouts.
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Criticized for aggressive blindside blocks that led to the “Hines Ward Rule” in 2009 banning certain hits, his toughness and leadership were nonetheless lauded, earning four Pro Bowl nods.
Though not yet in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Ward’s two Super Bowl rings and franchise impact cement his legacy as a Steelers icon.
But who ranks ahead of Ward at No. 16 all-time?
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