Steelers' Legendary WR Hines Ward In The Running To Become Collegiate Head Coach

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most storied franchises in all of sports. That didn't come about from having a lack of serious talent on the team throughout decades of successful football. Arguably the best wide receiver in the organization's history, Hines Ward was named the MVP of Super Bowl XL and remains one of the best Steelers to compete for the black and gold in the 21st century. He retired back in 2012 after he said that it wouldn't feel right to play for any other team, but has yet to get into the Hall of Fame because of how many talented pass catchers are currently eligible.

Ward worked as an intern in the Steelers' building not too long after he retired and then landed a job with the New York Jets for two seasons. In 2021, he joined the Florida Atlantic coaching staff as an assistant to the head coach and was later promoted to be the wide receivers coach. After a short stint there, he was hired by the XFL's San Antonio Brahamas to be their head coach.

Unfortunately for Ward, he was let go after just one season. There have been many people calling for Pittsburgh to potentially take a look at Ward to replace Frisman Jackson and become the Steelers' wide receiver coach in 2024. That may not be a possibility, however, as the former Super Bowl MVP is reportedly being considered for a collegiate head coaching gig.

According to Cory Hogue of Texas Football, the Hall of Fame candidate could have a job opportunity with Texas Southern. He has allegedly been contacted by the university and could be a serious candidate.

"Sources indicate that the Tigers have contacted another former NFL wide receiver with recent experience as a head coach in the [XFL] - Hines Ward."

There was a time when Grambling State was interested in hiring Ward as their head coach, but he said that he wasn't interested in bringing a "flashy" vibe like Deion Sanders has brought to Colorado.

Hogue also reported that the university was interested in potentially bringing in Andre Johnson, but he doesn't have the kind of coaching experience that some donors and alumni are looking for. Ward may be the perfect person for the job based on what those involved in the situation want in their next head coach.

"Ward is a semifinalist for the Hall of Fame and would be a 'splash' hire, which sources indicate is a desire among some of the Board of Regents."

The former Steelers wideout has bounced around a lot since retiring from the NFL. The next challenge could very well be a head coaching job in a constantly-changing college football world. If he is indeed hired, no one will expect him to lead Texas Southern to the College Football Playoff, but it would be interesting to see how he operates as a head coach in that position.

The ultimate goal for Ward could very well be to have a major role within an NFL offensive coaching staff. Regardless of playing pedigree, however, most former Pro Bowlers looking to get into coaching need to jump through the hoops and get a plethora of experience. Taking a job with the Tigers could be exactly what he needs to take the next step in his post-playing career.

Steelers Fans' Wish Regarding Ward Still Could Be Granted

While Ward could end up getting a collegiate head coaching job before he comes back to the NFL, he is only 47 years of age. He has plenty of time to make his way back to professional football and become a wide receivers coach. On top of that, it's no guarantee that he receives an offer at Texas Southern. If the Steelers lose in round one of the NFL playoffs and clean house on the offensive staff, Ward is just a phone call away.