Ward recently agreed to a contract extension that not only sets the table for him to finish his career as a Steeler; it also helps the team create some salary cap room to sign other key players. He’ll make less per season to help the team, but the difference will be made up with a signing bonus.

Ward is on track to eclipse 10,000 career receiving yards and 75 career touchdown receptions in the 2009 season.

And even thinking about the end of Ward’s NFL career makes me officially old.

Photo: Sports Illustrated