Eagles release linebacker Trent Cole

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - The Philadelphia Eagles have released linebacker Trent Cole.

A fifth-round draft choice of the Eagles in 2005 out of Cincinnati, the 32-year-old Cole ranks second in Eagles history with 85ˆ½ sacks in 10 seasons, trailing only Hall of Fame defensive end Reggie White. A two-time Pro Bowl selection (in 2007 and 2009) and an All-Pro pick in 2009, Cole appeared in 155 games with the Eagles. He had 795 tackles and 20 multi-sack games.

The Eagles also released longtime starting offensive lineman Todd Herremans and third-string tight end James Casey last week. They cut starting cornerback Cary Williams hours before the LeSean McCoy trade on Tuesday.

Overall, the Eagles saved nearly $21 million under the salary cap on four moves: $7.5 million for McCoy, $6.5 million for Williams, $4 million for Casey and $2.8 million for Herremans. More money-saving cuts are expected. They saved $8.4 million on Cole.

"We spoke with Trent and his agent and expressed a desire to have him back," Eagles coach Chip Kelly said. "We have been talking for a couple of weeks. However, at this point, we think it's best to let him explore other options around the NFL."

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