According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward has been officially downgraded to out against the New England Patriots for Week 8.
Hines Ward Status Update: Steelers Receiver Out Against Patriots
The move shouldn’t come as a huge surprise, as it was reported earlier in the week that Ward was “highly questionable” to play, but regardless, this should give his fantasy owners a little more peace of mind to bench him in a late-afternoon matchup. Of course, that peace of mind will shortly be disturbed by knowing their wide receiver will miss a matchup against the league’s worst pass defense.
Getting more looks in Ward's absence should be Emmanuel Sanders, who looks like a decent play opposite Mike Wallace, who should feast on the Pats. Ben Roethlisberger might struggle a tad more without his favorite safety valve, but then he'll see all the holes in the defense he's facing and will feel better.
For more on Ward’s injury and the Steelers, visit Behind The Steel Curtain.
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