Scott Brown of the Trib reports that, as of Sunday afternoon, the Steelers had not informed wide receiver Hines Ward of his status with the team in 2012.
Hines Ward’s representatives have yet to hear from Steelers.
Steelers Depot has more context on this. Basically, by March 1, the Steelers have to tell Ward what they plan to do with him.
Ward’s role with the Steelers was sharply reduced in 2011 as Antonio Brown joined Mike Wallace as a young star at wide receiver. Also, Ward will turn 36 in March, and most wide receivers are long gone by that age.
Steelers Depot notes that cutting Ward would give the Steelers $3.39 million in salary cap room in 2012. Ward has, however, said that he would be willing to take a pay cut in order to finish his career in black and gold. At this point, however, it’s unclear if the Steelers will have any use for him.
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