Cowboys cut former starting QB Bledsoe

IRVING, Texas, March 1 (UPI) -- Drew Bledsoe, who was replaced as starting quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys during the 2006 season, was released by the NFL team Thursday.

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

Bledsoe, however, is expected to seek other options.

He joined the Cowboys in 2005 and started 22 games. Dallas was 3-3 with him as a starter last season.

Bledsoe was replaced in favor of Tony Romo after the first half of a Monday night game against the New York Giants and did not take another snap all year. He has played 14 seasons in the NFL with New England, Buffalo and Dallas.