Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward would be interested in joining Kirby Smart's coaching staff at the University of Georgia.
Ward, a former do-it-all offensive sparkplug for the Bulldogs, told The Paul Finebaum Show he'd like to try his hand on Smart's staff.
"I've still got the itch to coach. I've always said, one day I wanted to be a coach. ... When Kirby Smart's name came up as head coach, it's something you get that itch for," Ward said. "Man, how great would that be to be part of his staff and help my alma mater at the University of Georgia and try to get them to the promised land? Who knows what's going to happen in the future? I'm still blessed for the opportunity to work at NBC. I enjoy my job each and every weekend, but in the back of my mind, it's hard for me not to think about what it would be like to go back."
The two were teammates at Georgia. Ward played for the Bulldogs from 1994-1997, amassing 1,066 rushing yards, 1,965 receiving yards and another 918 passing yards. Smart was a four-year letterman as a defensive back from 1995-1998, making 13 career interceptions and earning All-SEC honors in 1998.
If there is an opportunity for a high-profile former Bulldog on Smart's staff, particularly as a wide receivers coach, Ward's hand is raised.
"My phone's been ringing off the hook, and people are telling me that timing is everything," Ward said. "That's something I would be intrigued with."
Smart reportedly could be introduced as Georgia's new coach as early as Sunday or Monday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
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