The DeMarcus Ware era is over in Dallas.
The Cowboys’ official website has confirmed reports that Ware was released on Tuesday, in a cost-cutting move that brings Ware’s nine-year career in Dallas to an end. Ware was due $12.25 million in 2014, and his release will save the Cowboys $7.4 million against the cap.
Owner Jerry Jones said in a statement it was "extremely difficult" to make the decision, the Associated Press reports.
Ware exits Dallas as one of the greats in the 50-plus year history of the franchise. He went to seven Pro Bowls, was named first team All-Pro four times and is the Cowboys’ all-time sack leader with 117. He led the NFL in sacks twice, in 2008 and 2010.
Ware broke Harvey Martin's 30-year-old franchise record for sacks in 2013, but got to the quarterback a career-low six times and missed games for the first time in his nine-year career.
Last season, however, Ware looked to be in decline. He finished with career lows in tackles (40) and sacks (6), and missed games due to injury (three of them actually) for the first time in his career as he dealt with a quad injury. And the health concerns weren’t limited to his legs. Ware also played through a herniated disk in his back and had a nerve issue serious enough that it required surgery.
Ware was drafted by the Cowboys in the first round of the 2005 Draft, 11th overall, out of Troy University.
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