Colts won't re-sign Dwight Freeney

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Dwight Freeney won't be playing with the Indianapolis Colts next season.

The team announced Friday it won't sign Freeney to a new contract.

Freeney, a seven-time Pro Bowl player who was with the Colts when they won the 2007 Super Bowl, has been with the team for 11 years. He was drafted in 2002 and is among the NFL's all-time top pass rushers.

“Few people have meant as much to the success of the Indianapolis Colts as Dwight Freeney,” said Colts Owner and CEO Jim Irsay in a news release.  “He has been a dominant player, which is all the more impressive considering his size for his position, and he has won a lot of games for this franchise.  Dwight was an artist, a joy to watch, and the dedication he put toward his craft was a rare quality.  We will miss him, but look forward to his future induction into the Hall of Fame and Colts Ring of Honor.”

Freeney talked about the issue in December, ahead of what he thought could be his last time playing at Lucas Oil Stadium. At the time, he said he hoped to continue in Indianapolis and he's been grateful for everything the city had done for him.

Wide receiver Austin Collie, who has struggled with injury throughout his time with the Colts, hinted to his own departure from the Colts via Twitter on Friday.

"Sad day for me and my fam. It was a g8 4 yrs. Can't thnk u all enough 4 ur hospitality and support. Blessed to have been a part of this org," he tweeted.

The Colts didn't immediately comment on Collie.