7 greatest Pittsburgh Steelers of the Ben Roethlisberger era

3. Hines Ward

Like Harrison, Hines Ward was a perfect fit in the Steelers organization. Ward was well-known as one of the toughest wide receivers in the NFL throughout his career and was not only efficient catching the ball, but was willing to get physical and block as well. Ward was widely regarded as one of the top blocking receivers in all of football, which became evident when he set a blindside block on Keith Rivers, which caused Rivers to suffer a broken jaw.

According to Pro Football Reference, Ward is the Steelers’ all-time leader in catches with 1,000, receiving yards with 12,083, receiving touchdowns with 85, and targets with 1,558. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Super Bowl Champion.

Like several of the players mentioned before, Ward also stepped up his play in the biggest moments as well. Ward was named the MVP of Super Bowl XL, after posting five receptions for 125 yards and receiving touchdown. His 43-yard touchdown reception from Antwaan Randle El was what put the game away for Pittsburgh to defeat the Seattle Seahawks.

Ward is the most accomplished receiver in Steelers history, and his ability to step up his play in clutch moments, on top of his counting stats, are why he could one day down the road possibly make the Hall of Fame, despite the difficulty of making it as a wide receiver.