The veteran linebacker played his first nine seasons in Green Bay.
The Green Bay Packers are continuing to revamp the middle of their defense. According to the team's website, veteran inside linebacker A.J. Hawk has been released.
Hawk first joined the team as the fifth overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. He finishes his Packers career as the franchise's all-time leader in tackles with 1,118. He started for most of his nine years in Green Bay, including the team's Super Bowl-winning 2010 season. However, he saw his playing time diminish last year as Sam Barrington's role increased and Clay Matthews began taking more snaps at inside linebacker.
"A.J. is a consummate Packer and we are grateful for all that he has given and how he represented the organization over the past nine seasons," Thompson said in the team's press release. "He was a durable and consistent contributor to our success, but more importantly, he is a great person and teammate. The Packers are grateful for all that he has done on the field and in the community. We wish A.J., his wife Laura, and the rest of their family all the best."
Hawk underwent ankle surgery immediately following the season, so his official designation is likely to be waived/failed physical, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky. The move saves the Packers $3.5 million in cap space. Along with last week's release of fellow inside linebacker Brad Jones, the team has added over $7 million in cap space. Those resources will come in handy when the team negotiates with soon-to-be free agents Randall Cobb and Bryan Bulaga.
Hawk wasn't the only veteran released Wednesday. Below is a running list of freshly minted street free agents:
- Jacoby Jones (Baltimore Ravens)
- Ricky Jean Francois (Indianapolis Colts)
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