Cleveland Browns Release Linebacker Jamie Collins

Jamie Collins finished the 2018 season as the Cleveland Browns leader in total tackles, 104 and solo tackles, 73. In the end, it did not matter. Wednesday, the veteran linebacker had his contract terminated.

We've released LB Jamie Collins Sr.

Details » https://t.co/Vk8rspkqqY pic.twitter.com/HqDnPJX2SM

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) March 6, 2019

“We want to thank Jamie for his contributions to the Cleveland Browns,” general manager John Dorsey said via a press release. “These types of decisions are never easy. Jamie is a respected veteran player in this league and we wish him the best as he continues his career.”

The Browns acquired Collins in a deadline deal in 2016 from the New England Patriots. He started all 16 games last year and recorded 104 tackles, four sacks, one interception, four passes defensed, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Collins was originally drafted by New England in the second round of the 2013 draft.

The Browns and Collins agreed to a four-year $50 million deal on 2017 before he could test the free agent market. Two years later, Collins gets that chance.

The Browns will save $9.25 million in cap costs in 2019 and $13.75 million in 2020. Collins was schedule to make $10 million in 2019 and $12 million in 2020.

The former Browns linebacker took to twitter to thank everyone.

https://twitter.com/j_collins91/status/1103371138225373186

Despite losing $2.5 million in cap space this season by releasing Collins, the Browns will have $80 million to spend. Free agency begins on March 13.

Scott Piker is the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Indians Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage.com. So follow him on twitter @ScottPikerSport