I'm pretty disappointed to hear this, because you don't really expect to hear something like this coming from Hines Ward, and I'm torn on the issue.

On one hand, he fucking deserves it. Ward has been in the top 10 receivers in the league for years, and if you ask me, there isn't a tougher and more well-rounded one in the league. The guy does it all. He has more heart than most everyone I can think of in the league, and he should get paid far more than the 40th or so ranking that he is.

On the other, this is sort of like the situation with Richard Seymour in New England. I don't really see either team budging on the issue because that's just their team mentalities. Some teams are firm believers that if a player is still under contract, they should be obligated to fulfill that contract before demanding more money.

All rambling aside, I really hope the Steelers get this situation resolved. I don't think I could go a Sunday without seeing Hines make a monster block or a great catch followed by me cheering wildly. How can you not love a guy that gets absolutely destroyed by a safety or cornerback and gets up with the biggest smile on his face you've ever seen?

Hines Ward is Pittsburgh. He represents the toughness, the work ethic, and is one of the greatest leaders on the team. We need him. It'll be a dark day in the 'Burgh if he ever leaves.