Ward’s Knee on the Way Back to 100 Percent

From ESPN’s Hashmarks:

Player, position, injury: Hines Ward, receiver, partially torn right knee ligament and meniscus.

Rehab status: Ward played most of the 2007 season with an injured knee and waited until after the season to have corrective surgery. There was a time when Ward, a converted college quarterback and former third-round pick, felt the need to prove himself in offseason workouts even when he was hurt. But with 10 years of experience and a Super Bowl MVP on his mantel, Ward has no problem letting the younger players get more reps this offseason.

Next step: Ward should be healthy by training camp. Meanwhile, the Steelers drafted receiver Limas Sweed in the second round. Ward has been teaching Sweed the nuances of the Steelers offense, which can only be good for the rookie.

Fantasy spin: Ward averaged only 10.3 yards per reception in ’07, which lends credence to the notion that his knee was a limiting factor. If he’s right, expect Ward to get back to his more traditional 12 or 13 per catch, though he’ll continue to be an injury risk. But if he’s permanently slowed or if the knee and/or hamstring troubles recur, rookie Sweed could find himself thrust into the spotlight early. Nate Washington would also figure to be a more likely target, possibly from the slot.