Veteran LB would have cost Broncos $5.2 million
Al Wilson had 715 tackles in eight years with the Broncos.
Broncos linebacker Al Wilson's heart tells him he can still play football. His neck is a different story.
The Broncos Friday released the five-time Pro Bowler due to a combination of injury and salary cap concerns. Wilson is coming off a neck injury suffered last season against Seattle on Dec. 3. He was also scheduled to make $5.2 million in base salary this season.
A Broncos spokesman declined comment and an e-mail to Denver general manager Ted Sundquist wasn't returned.
Wilson, who was informed by the team Thursday night he'd be cut, had no bitter feelings toward the team.
"My time is up as a Bronco," the eight-year veteran said. "It's time to move forward and try something else. You have to do what's best for your organization, just like a Fortune 500 company. Sometimes you have to let good employees go."
Wilson has been the defensive captain of the Broncos for the last six seasons. He led the team in tackles last season with 113.
However, he was plagued by injuries in the second half of 2006. Wilson hurt his neck running into teammate Gerard Warren on a tackle against the Seahawks and had to be carted off the field as the crowd gave him an ovation and chanted his name.
And while he played the next three weeks, Wilson didn't participate in the season finale against San Francisco due to thumb and back injuries. The loss knocked Denver out of a playoff spot.
"I've had a great time here," Wilson said. "I feel like I've got a few more good years in me, too."
He was nearly dealt to the New York Giants earlier this spring. However, he failed a physical and the Giants backed out of the trade.
"I was looking forward to a new opportunity," Wilson said. "There are 31 other teams out there."
But his neck remains a concern. Wilson won't play again until doctors clear him. Wilson claims doctors say his neck is getting better.
"If I can get medically cleared, hey, I'm going to go out and play," Wilson said. "I feel like I still can play. It's not about the money. I'll only get out there and play if I'm healthy."
Peter Schaffer, Wilson's agent, wouldn't discuss the exact nature of Wilson's neck injury.
Wilson played the following week after he injured his neck against division rival San Diego. Asked if he came back too soon from the injury, he paused as his eyes stared at his folded hands.
"Maybe I should've sat out a week or two," Wilson said. "The competitive nature in me, I wanted to compete."
Wilson had a good parting conversation with Broncos coach Mike Shanahan on Thursday.
"I wish him nothing but the best," Wilson said.
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