One year after saying goodbye to longtime quarterback Peyton Manning, the Indianapolis Colts are parting with another of the franchise's all-time great players.
The team announced Friday that it would not attempt to re-sign Dwight Freeney, whose contract expired after the 2012 season.
"Few people have meant as much to the success of the Indianapolis Colts as Dwight Freeney," owner Jim Irsay said in a statement.
"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."
Some questioned the Colts' decision to make Freeney the 11th overall pick of the 2002 draft since he wasn't the ideal size (6-1, 268 pounds) to play defensive end in the NFL. But he quickly justified team's faith, using quickness and his signature spin move to rack up 13 sacks as a rookie.
Freeney leaves Indianapolis as the franchise leader in sacks (107½) and forced fumbles (44).
However the seven-time Pro Bowler's production has been in decline since he registered 13½ sacks in 2009. That figure dropped to five last season, though Freeney was also trying to adjust to playing outside linebacker in the 3-4 defensive scheme favored by new coach Chuck Pagano.
Freeney, who turns 33 Tuesday, would likely fit best at end on a 4-3 defense, perhaps as situational edge rusher. Playoff teams like the New England Patriots, Seattle Seahawks and Atlanta Falcons could certainly use a pass-rushing upgrade.
I still think he can be very productive still, even though he isn't in his prime. Its a shame, I thought with Freeney and Sanders in the backfield on defense would be the defense of the future, but I guess not. 
Surprised teams don't care much about defense, sad seeing Freeney, C-Woodson, and probably Reed leaving teams this late in there careers like that.