Steelers release LB James Harrison

The Steelers released controversial linebacker James Harrison, the team announced today.

"We have informed James Harrison that we have released him," Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert said. "James has been an integral part of our success during his years in Pittsburgh and has helped us win two Lombardi trophies during that time. We appreciate all of his efforts and wish him the best.”

Harrison originally signed with the Steelers as an undrafted rookie free agent on April 22, 2002. He started 95 of 131 games played for Pittsburgh and registered 64 sacks to rank fourth in franchise history. He was the Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2008 after recording a Steelers’ record 16 sacks.

Harrison's most memorable play in a Steeler uniform was his clutch, game-changing "pick six" in Super Bowl XLIII, where he intercepted Arizona's Kurt Warner in the red zone and ran it back 100 yards for a Pittsburgh touchdown.

In 2012, Harrison started and played in 13 games, producing 6 sacks.

Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin said, "James has played a major role in the success of this organization during his time in Pittsburgh. I appreciate everything he has done in my six years as head coach and wish him nothing but the best in the future."

Harrison earned five consecutive trips to the Pro Bowl (2007-11) and was named All-Pro three times (2007, ‘08 and ’10). He helped the Steelers win three AFC Championships and two Super Bowls.

More recently however, Harrison has been noted for the fines he has drawn from the league for several of his hits. The tough, uncompromising Harrison has publicly expressed his displeasure with the NFL over such punishment.

By Staff of The Daily Sports Herald and news services