Indianapolis, IN (Sports Network) - After 11 years together, the Indianapolis Colts and defensive end Dwight Freeney will be parting ways.
The Colts announced on Friday they will not extend a contract offer to the free agent to be, effectively ending a productive partnership. Free agency starts March 12.
Indianapolis has reaped the benefits of Freeney's production ever since drafting him with 11th pick in the 2002 NFL Draft, as he became the team's all-time sack leader and a seven-time Pro Bowler, while also helping the Colts capture Super Bowl XLI in 2007.
"Few people have meant as much to the success of the Indianapolis Colts as Dwight Freeney," said owner and CEO Jim Irsay. "He has been a dominant player, which is all the more impressive considering his size for his position, and he has won a lot of games for this franchise. Dwight was an artist, a joy to watch, and the dedication he put toward his craft was a rare quality. We will miss him, but look forward to his future induction into the Hall of Fame and Colts Ring of Honor."
During his illustrious tenure with Indianapolis, the three-time All-Pro notched 107.5 career sacks along with 44 forced fumbles.
Freeney recorded double-digit sack totals in seven of his 11 seasons with the Colts, producing his greatest single-season amount in 2004, when he led the league with 16 sacks.
However, the 32-year-old has seen his production decrease over the last four campaigns. In 2012, he only registered five sacks and 12 tackles in 14 contests.
