Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker LaMarr Woodley and New York Jets receiver Santonio Holmes are reportedly the newest names to hit the free agency market. Both players will be available to sign with another team on Tuesday, ESPN reports.
Woodley, who signed a six-year deal worth $61.5 million before the 2011 season, is expected to be released soon.
Per ESPN:
"Woodley, the highest-paid defensive player in Steelers history, will be designated as a post-June 1 salary-cap casualty and will be available to sign with another team starting at 4 p.m. ET Tuesday, according to sources."
Woodley, 29, was set to earn $8 million next season. He became expendable with the emergence of five-year pro Jason Worilds, who signed the Steelers' transition tag last week.
Woodley finished the season 36 total tackles and one forced fumble.
The Jets, meanwhile, announced on Monday Holmes would no longer be part of the team.
"I appreciate Tone's contributions over the last four season," Jets coach Rex Ryan said, via ESPN. "I've always admired his knack for making the clutch play. He's a tremendous competitor who wants the ball in his hands when the game is on the line. I wish him nothing but the best."
New York created $10.75 million in salary cap space for the 2014 season by releasing him.
Holmes, who signed a five-year contract worth $45 million in 2011, struggled over the past two seasons with injuries. His lack of production on the field and his reputation for being "a pain in the ass," according to what a team official told ESPN, contributed to his release.
The 30-year-old veteran caught 23 passes for 456 yards and one touchdown last season. Holmes joins a free agency market that is already loaded with receivers.
