Steelers' Hines Ward Recalls Strange Moment With Bill Cowher That Shaped His Career

While speaking during a segment on NFL Films, Ward recalled a strange but unforgettable moment that symbolized his early experience in the league. He remembered getting chewed out by Head Coach Bill Cowher in his rookie year, so close that a spit bubble landed on his nose. 

"I remember it like it was yesterday, it was my rookie year, 1998," Ward said. "Cowher just got in my face right here, almost about to kiss me. There was a little spit bubble that landed right on my nose. I just kept looking at it the whole time, like I wanted to wipe it off, but he was just chewing me out. I couldn’t even hear what he was saying. It was kind of like Charlie Brown’s mom."

Ward could not even hear the words. He just stared at the spit. But the encounter turned into a defining lesson. 

Cowher later pulled him aside, praised him, and told him he was going to be great. It was the beginning of a bond that helped shape Ward’s storied career.

"I get to the bench and Cowher came over to me," Ward said. "He whispered to me not to worry about it and told me I was gonna be a great player. I was looking at it like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde… Coaches who get on you, they love you. You need to worry when coaches don't get on you. I told him, 'I know you like me, coach, because you are always spitting on me.' I knew I was one of his favorites."

Ward spent his entire 14-year NFL career with the Steelers after being drafted in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He retired in 2011 as one of the most beloved players in franchise history. Ward was the MVP of Super Bowl XL, helped the Steelers win two championships (Super Bowl XL and XLIII), made four straight Pro Bowls from 2002 to 2005, and still holds the team records for receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.

Steelers' Ward Brought A Linebacker's Mentality To The Wide Receiver Position

Ward was a legend in the Steel City. He brought a level of toughness and selflessness that defined what it meant to wear the black and gold. It brings up an interesting situation when comparing him to today’s wide receivers. The modern-day NFL wide receiver isn't made like Ward was. It’s rare to find a receiver who plays with the mindset and physicality of a linebacker, and that’s exactly the energy Ward brought to every snap.

There’s no doubt that Cowher’s unique coaching style played a big role in shaping Ward’s mentality. Cowher knew how to push the right buttons, and his intensity clearly got through to Ward. That fire, combined with Ward’s relentless effort and team-first attitude, helped fuel the Steelers to two Super Bowl titles during his career. His greatness wasn’t just in his numbers, it was in the way he shaped the culture for Pittsburgh.