With just under $5 million due to Aaron Kampman in the 2012 NFL season, the Jacksonville Jaguars made a move that many anticipated and released the veteran defensive end. The Jaguars announced the move in a press release on Thursday.

Kampman had a strong start with the Jaguars with four sacks in eight games, initially validating the four-year, $24 million risky contract given to a player coming off an ACL tear, but another ACL tear suffered in practice ended his 2010 season. Complications from the knee injury coupled with a hamstring injury halted most of his 2011 season and eventually sent him to the injured reserve for a third consecutive season. During the few times Kampman saw the field he was largely ineffective.

Prior to his ACL tear in 2009 with the Green Bay Packers, Kampman had started 73 consecutive games and recorded 54 sacks in eight seasons with the team.

Aaron Kampman is THE best teammate I ever had. Hate to see him go.

— Terrance Knighton (@Yougotroasted96) June 7, 2012