Former Steelers WR Hines Ward expected to retire Tuesday - USA TODAY

The Steelers have called a noon ET press conference Tuesday where former Pittsburgh WR Hines Ward is expected to retire.

The team announced it was releasing its all-time leading pass catcher Feb. 29.

If Ward, 36, hangs up his cleats after 14 years, he'd finish with 1,000 career catches (8th all time), 12,083 receiving yards (18th) and 85 TD catches (13th). He was named to four Pro Bowl teams and was the MVP of Super Bowl XL.

PHOTOS: ?Ward's career in pictures

Ward owns all of Pittsburgh's significant receiving records -- far eclipsing the stats of Hall of Famers John Stallworth and Lynn Swann -- though he may be best remembered as one of the best blocking wideouts in league history. Ward and Jerry Rice are also the only NFL players with at least 1,000 receptions and two Super Bowl rings.

Wright By:kevin,
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