The Facts: Ward, who turns 36 March 8, had surgery to remove bone fragments from his right ankle. He will resume working out Monday at home in suburban Atlanta toward what he hopes will be his 15th season with the Steelers.

Diehards Line:Ward, the most prolific and decorated Steelers receiver of all time, opened his 14th season as he did the previous 12, as one of two starters. He caught 20 passes in his first five games but finished with 46, the lowest total since his rookie season in 1998. Ward maintained throughout the season that he wanted to play in '12. The unknown is whether the Steelers want him. Stay tuned.