10 greatest Steelers draft choices during the Kevin Colbert era

Hines Ward, Wide receiver (1998 NFL Draft: 3rd round, pick 92)

Hines Ward was drafted in the third round coming out of Georgia. He was their starting quarterback there, but he transitioned to the receiver position to make for a career at the next level in the NFL. The smiling player became the fan favorite for the team that was physical and unique in his playstyle.

Ward was taken by the Steelers and caught on after his rookie season. That year created a slow start to his career, but during his second season, he started catching on. The rest is basically history as this player went on to have a borderline hall of fame career.

He was a leader for this offense that missed some of that on their group for some time. The amazing plays that became ingrained into Steelers history were nothing short of amazing. He was one of the most beloved players of the black and gold during that time, even though the team had many other great players.

Ward progressed all the way to eventually become the best receiver in franchise history as he broke many records. Ward retired after the 2011 season as the game started changing and young players started to take over. Two Super Bowl championships and many yards later, this player is still smiling in retirement.