The Dallas Cowboys released quarterback Drew Bledsoe on Thursday, a move that did not come as a surprise. Bledsoe started the fix six games last season before then head coach Bill Parcells replaced him with Tony Romo. Bledsoe would have earned a $1 million roster bonus on Friday had he stayed with the team, and was scheduled to make $4.5 million next season. That would've been a lot for a backup player.

Bledsoe has thrown for 44,611 yards and 251 touchdowns. Last season, he threw for 1,164 yards, seven touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He was 3-3 before being replaced by Romo.

"I spoke with Drew today and told him that this was primarily a cap decision and that the door was very much open for him being a part of our future," said Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones. "Drew has been a solid leader for our team and a true professional both on and off the field."

After Damon Huard signed a new deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, Bledsoe could be the most coveted veteran quarterback in free agency.