Hines Ward is a former American football player who played as a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). He was born on March 8, 1976, in Seoul, South Korea, to a Korean mother and an African American father who was serving in the U.S. Army. Ward grew up in Georgia and attended the University of Georgia, where he played college football for the Bulldogs.
Ward was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as one of the team's most reliable and versatile players, known for his toughness, work ethic, and ability to make clutch plays. He played for the Steelers for 14 seasons, from 1998 to 2011, and was a key part of the team's success during that time.
Over the course of his career, Ward set numerous records and earned numerous accolades. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection, a two-time Super Bowl champion, and the MVP of Super Bowl XL. He also holds several Steelers franchise records, including most receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches.
Ward was known for his physical style of play, often making tough catches in traffic and delivering punishing blocks on opposing defenders. He was also a skilled route-runner and had a knack for getting open in key situations. His ability to make big plays in clutch situations earned him the nickname "Mr. Third Down."
Off the field, Ward was known for his charitable work and his involvement in the Korean American community. He established the Hines Ward Helping Hands Foundation, which provides assistance to underprivileged children in the United States and Korea. He also served as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme, promoting health and education initiatives in Africa.
After retiring from football in 2012, Ward became a television analyst for NBC Sports and later joined CNN as a sports contributor. He also competed on the 12th season of Dancing with the Stars, where he won the competition with his partner Kym Johnson.
Overall, Hines Ward is widely regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history and a beloved figure in the city of Pittsburgh. His toughness, work ethic, and clutch performances on the field, as well as his charitable work and community involvement off the field, have made him a role model for many fans and aspiring athletes.
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