Lynchpin of Superbowl winning team is cut as youth and money take precedent.Charles Woodson is one of the best defensive players of his generation and will live long in the memory of Green Bay fans as he was part of their memorable championship winning team in 2010.
However all things must come to an end and sadly that end has come for the 36 year old, who must now look for one more team before he hangs up his pads for good.
In a statement released on NFL.com, General Manager Ted Thompson thanked Woodson for his contribution to the organisation.
“We are grateful for all that Charles has given to the Green Bay Packers over the past seven years,” Packers general manager Ted Thompson said in a statement.
“He has been an integral part of the Packers’ success and our Super Bowl title in 2010 would not have been possible without his contributions.
“A once-in-a-generation talent as a player, he is also a great leader and ambassador for the organization off the field. Charles will always be a member of the Packers family and we look forward to his eventual induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. We wish him and his family all the best.”
As the Packers move on with their defensive re-shuffle, salary cap issues and long term planning meant Woodson – who had moved to safety this season – became expendable, which will be another teams gain.
The former Heisman trophy winner brings a wealth of experience to whoever will sign him next, and could be a real asset to a team with a young secondary who could learn off the 15 year veteran.
Teams who believe they are on the cusp of a Superbowl win would be wise to pick up the cornerback, who has experience in recent years with the Packers on how to win in the playoffs and possess the game changing abilities which could make the difference in a championship winning season.
It is not the way Woodson would have wanted to leave Green Bay, but he now has the opportunity to earn one final paycheck and play on a team that will mirror his aspirations for a deep playoff run.
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