Jets Hire Former Steelers WR Hines Ward as Full-Time Offensive Assistant Coach

Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward is officially an NFL coach. 

The New York Jets announced Monday that they were promoting Ward from a coaching intern to a full-time offensive assistant. 

"He's a great resource because he's done it at a high level consistently," wideout Robby Anderson said. "He's a future Hall of Famer, so what more can I ask for? I'm picking his brain, and he's more so telling me than I'm asking him, and I'm just staying on top of him. He's just trying to find ways to get me better in each way."

He'll continue working with the wideouts in his full-time role:

Ward, 43, spent 14 seasons as a wide receiver with the Steelers, notching 1,000 career receptions for 12,083 yards and 85 touchdowns. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion.

Ward finished his career 14th all-time in receptions, 15th in receiving touchdowns and 25th in receiving yards.

New Jets general manager Joe Douglas contacted Ward over the summer about the possibility of joining the organization.

"It was this summer when Joe said something to me about how they kind of talked about bringing him in at Philly at one point to work in a training camp, and he had done it in Pittsburgh," head coach Adam Gase said. "When his name came up, he reached out to Hines and then I had a conversation with Hines and we got it done."

For a young Jets offense on the rise, a decorated and title-winning player like Ward will be an excellent resource and guide. Ward made his name as a tough, physical and smart receiver, as famous for his crushing blocks as for his route running and hands. He should be a solid addition to Gase's staff.