Hines Ward could be saying farewell to the NFL

On a day when one aging NFL star is beginning the final chapter of his playing career, another could be calling it quits.

Hines Ward, released last month after 14 seasons with Pittsburgh, will meet with the media at Steelers headquarters Tuesday, presumably to announce his retirement.

Ward, arguably the best blocking receiver in the game, has 1,000 receptions and 85 touchdowns.

(11:14 a.m. update: It’s official. Ward announces retirement.)

The 36-year-old receiver was born two weeks before Peyton Manning, who will be introduced Tuesday as the new quarterback of the Denver Broncos.

A third-round pick who played quarterback in high school and receiver and tailback at Georgia, Ward reached four Pro Bowls and is the Steelers’ all-time leader in catches, yards receiving, and receiving touchdowns.

Ward was the MVP of Super Bowl XL after leading the Steelers to a 21-10 victory over Seattle. In 2008, he was the league’s Walter Payton Man of the Year, and gained popularity outside the league last year by winning “Dancing with the Stars.”

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Hines Ward could be saying farewell