Patch Poll: Is Hines Ward's Retirement from Steelers the Right Move?

Wiping away back tears, former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward this morning announced his retirement from the NFL during a news conference at Steelers headquarters on the South Side.

The team's all-time leader in receptions, Ward had been a free agent after spending 14 seasons with the team. The Steelers released No 86—a longtime favorite of Pittsburgh fans—last month, although he'd said he preferred to stay in Pittsburgh and broached the prospect of taking a voluntary pay cut to do so.

In the news conference, Ward called his retirement "the right thing to do," saying he was grateful to have played for a team and city he loved.

"I will truly miss you guys, my brothers," Ward said as he thanked Steelers management, his fellow players and loyal fans.

"To my fans and Steeler Nation, no words can express what you mean to me ... Thank you for all the love and support," he said in a choked voice. "Through it all, you guys have given me the best years of my life.

"As I close this chapter of my life, I want to say: 'Thank you very much.' "

Is Ward making the right decision? Would he have been able to extend his career a bit longer with another team? Or is he making the right move to end his career as a Steeler?

What do you think?