The Houston Texans announced today that they are releasing their all-time receiving leader Andre Johnson. Johnson has been with the team for 12 years and was selected 3rd overall out of the University of Miami. Johnson holds nearly every receiving record for the team including career receptions (1,012), career receiving yards (13,597), and career touchdowns (64).

Last month the Texans had given Johnson permission to seek a trade, but the seven-time Pro Bowl receiver asked the team to release him. Johnson's contract would have counted $16.1 toward the cap for the 2015 season. The team saved over $8 million dollars by releasing Johnson.

In a statement issued by Texans GM Rick Smith, it seemed as if the two sides have parted ways on good terms. "After exhausting all options of a possible trade, we informed Andre Johnson that he would be released today. No player in the history of this franchise has represented the team, city and community in a more professional way. Andre is a Hall of Fame caliber player and we appreciate his years of service and contributions to our team."

Johnson became expendable to the Texans not only for his large cap number, but with the emergence of receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins had his first 1,000 yard season, while Johnson had 936 yards.

Johnson, even though 33, will still peak the interest of many teams. Teams interested in Johnson's services include: Seattle, Philadelphia, New England, and Indianapolis, among others.

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