Steelers fire WR coach, opening the door for Hines Ward to step in as a replacement

News just broke that the Steelers have moved on from Frisman Jackson. The wide receivers coach joined the Steelers in 2022 and helped the likes of Diontae Johnson and George Pickens take their games to another level. One thing Jackson and others haven't been able to accomplish is temper down the big egos in that room.

Jackson joined the Steelers after nearly 14 years of coaching receivers between the collegiate and professional ranks. It is believed that his contract was up and the Steelers did not want to renew him. That has now opened an opportunity for Pittsburgh to bring back a fan favorite. Perhaps a former legendary player will be able to help keep the egos in check.

Hines Ward has a chunk of experience as a receivers coach and other positions across multiple football platforms. Ward was a legendary receiver for the Steelers and was a borderline Hall of Fame talent who played a physical brand of football. We know with Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator he may demand blocking from his receivers.

Hines Ward could be the Steelers target to become the next WR coach

Ward was also a tremendous leader during his playing days, and that is something he could carry over into coaching receivers like Pickens and Johnson. Both of the top two receivers for the Steelers had ego struggles this past year and someone like Ward could benefit them. His lack of experience could be concerning, but he has playing experience that could help him with that lack of coaching experience.

Ward was an intern for the black and gold back in 2017 before becoming an offensive assistant for the New York Jets from 2019 to 2020. He then went to the college route and coached receivers at Florida Atlantic in 2021. He would then make headlines when he was named Head coach of the San Antonio Brahmas of the XFL. He was a coach there in 2023 but is now looking for another job.

It was rumored that Ward was being targeted to get a Head coaching gig at a small college program. That has not resulted in any news about the potential hire becoming a reality. The Steelers would be wise to throw their hat into the ring and see what interest Ward would have in the position.

Ward would have some experience in coaching and mix that with plenty of prior playing experience. The Steelers would hope that it would lead to the perfect match to elevate both Pickens and Johnson's games to another level.

Mike Tomlin might get some flack as some might say he brings in former players and different buddies of his. Ward is someone that has experience in coaching now, even though it has not been at significant organizations.

Hines Ward is someone who would likely get a lot of praise at the time of the hire and it seems like the fit and timing could finally be just right. Keep an eye out for Ward to get hired here. If not him, then maybe someone with a ton of experience will be recycled again.