Tomlin expects Steelers WR Ward to play in Super Bowl

Jan 20, 2009 - 10:07 PM PITTSBURGH (Ticker) -- A sprained right knee will not keep Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward out of the Super Bowl. At least if coach Mike Tomlin has a say in it.

"In his mind he is playing, so chances are he is," Tomlin said. "It's not going to be comfortable between now and game day in terms of making that happen. It's not about comfort, particularly for Hines."

Ward was injured midway through the opening quarter of Sunday's AFC championship game after making an 11-yard reception. His knee appeared to be bent back under him on a tackle by Baltimore Ravens cornerback Frank Walker.

After going to the locker room, Ward returned for another series, catching a short pass before leaving the game for the rest of the first half.

The MVP of Super Bowl XL, Ward was at the team's practice facility Tuesday to receive treatment on the knee.

"The guy I saw this morning was down there aggressively getting after his rehabilitation and putting himself in position to help this football team," Tomlin said. "We're going to do everything in our power to make sure he gets the medical attention that he needs."

Tomlin said Ward might have to miss some practice time this week but expects him to be ready for Super Bowl XLIII on February 1 against the Arizona Cardinals.

"We are not going to count him out," Tomlin said. "We are going to save a seat on the bus for (No.) 86."