The Green Bay Packers have released veteran linebacker AJ Hawk after nine seasons with the team.
The 31-year-old has been criticised for poor performances in recent years, and last season they often moved Clay Matthews inside to Hawk's position.
Hawk, who saves the team £2.25m on their salary cap, is currently recovering from ankle surgery.
He said in a statement: "I spent nine great years in Green Bay. I had awesome teammates and coaches and a great medical staff and equipment staff. Many of them have become my closest friends. We won a ton of games, as well as a Super Bowl, and I loved everything about playing for one of the greatest franchises in all of sports.
"The fans in Green Bay are incredible. Between playing at Lambeau Field as well as seeing them on the road, they always supported us. I am looking forward to my next opportunity in the NFL, but I'll always cherish my years as a Green Bay Packer."
Hawk ranks as the most successful tackler in Green Bay history, with 1,118.
Charlie Bennett
