The Kansas City Chiefs announced on Tuesday they are releasing veteran linebacker Anthony Hitchens, in a move that will save the Chiefs $8.4 million in salary cap space. Hitchens came to the Chiefs as a free agent in 2018 after four seasons as a starter with the Cowboys; the 29 year old has been the Chiefs starting inside linebacker for the past four seasons.

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said in a statement: “When I first became general manager, one of the first moves I wanted to make was to bring in Anthony Hitchens from Dallas. We knew how intelligent, hard-working and consistent he was as a player, and we knew he’d become a selfless leader. He was that and more. He has all the intangibles and was an integral piece in our franchise winning a Super Bowl title. We appreciate everything he’s done for the organization and wish him the best as he continues his career.”

Coach Andy Reid added in a statement: “I really enjoyed the opportunity to coach Anthony over the last four years. He’s as tough as they come in this league and is a team-first player. I appreciate the way he came to work, ready to do his part, but also his willingness to teach the younger guys around him.”

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