Hines Ward has dabbled in television since retiring from the NFL in 2012. Now the former Pittsburgh Steelers receiver has a new gig.

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CNN announced Wednesday the hiring of Ward as a sports contributor for HLN’s Morning Express with Robin Meade. Ward will provide commentary on more than just the NFL, analyzing major sporting events and breaking news across all CNN platforms, including CNN/U.S., CNN Digital, CNNMoney and CNN International. Ward previously served as an NFL analyst for NBC Sports.

"I'm incredibly grateful to HLN and CNN for welcoming me to their prestigious team," Ward, who completed the 2013 Ironman World Championships in Hawaii and won "Dancing With the Stars" in 2011, said in a statement. "Throughout my career, I've always envisioned myself as more than just a football player and this platform will allow me to express myself in different and unique ways. I'm excited to be able to share my journey and my stories with our audiences, both in the U.S. and worldwide."

Ward spent his entire 14-year NFL career with the Steelers, retiring as the franchise's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and helped Pittsburgh win two Super Bowls while going to a third. The team decided it would no longer issue his No. 86.

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"Hines is a true champion with such a winning personality," said Bill Galvin, SVP, Sports Programming, CNN. "His perspective on sports extends well beyond the football field — a fresh voice we’re excited to share with HLN and CNN audiences."