Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward has been excused from the team’s minicamp as he continues to recover from knee surgery.

Head coach Mike Tomlin has told Ward that he would not lose his status at the team’s No. 1 wide receiver even if he stays away from practice.

Ward said he used to feel as though he had to practice to prove a point.

He said he no longer feels that burden and will play when doctors clear him to do so.