Ward recently underwent surgery to remove bone fragments from his right ankle, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
Impacts: The surgery was minor in nature, and Ward expects to resume working out Monday. The most prolific Steelers receiver of all time, Ward began this season as a starter, catching 20 passes in his first five games, but finished with 46, the lowest total since his rookie season in 1998. "I'm not going to get into whatever happened last season," Ward said of his decreased playing time, which some speculate was the decision of departed OC Bruce Arians, and maintains he will be ready for OTAs. Ward is due a roster bonus next month in addition to a $4 million contract. A significant pay cut seems likely if Ward is to return, and the Steelers have to make a decision by March 1 due to a clause in Ward's contract.