Tempe, AZ (Sports Network) - The Arizona Cardinals have released safety Adrian
Wilson, who spent 12 seasons with the franchise.
Wilson joined the Cardinals in 2001 as a third-round draft pick. He has been
selected to five Pro Bowls and his 181 games played rank as the fifth-highest
total in club history.
"Decisions like this are never easy but it's especially tough with someone
like Adrian because he's been such a special player and important part of this
organization for the last 12 years," said Cardinals general manager Steve Keim
in a statement Friday. "His disruptive style meant opponents always had to
know where (he) lined up and the statistics illustrate all that he
accomplished through his play on the field. Just as impressive, though, has
been the leadership, discipline and determination he brought day in and day
out, year in and year out."
Wilson, who had signed a four-year extension last July, has 987 career
tackles, 27 interceptions and 25 1/2 sacks. He is one of just six players with
at least 25 picks and 25 sacks, and his interception total ranks sixth in team
history.
"All of us thank Adrian for what he has meant not only to our organization but
also to this community," said Cardinals president Michael Bidwill. "In every
franchise, there is a select group of players whose contributions earn them
iconic status and for us, Adrian Wilson will always be one of those players.
He joined us at a key time in our organization's evolution and helped lead us
into a new era. We will always be grateful for that and look forward to the
day when he's placed in the Ring of Honor at University of Phoenix Stadium
alongside the other all-time great Cardinals."
The 33-year-old North Carolina State product notched 54 tackles, three sacks
and one interception in 15 games last season.
The Sports Network