The Pittsburgh Steelers announced on Saturday that they have released linebacker James Harrison in order to free up cap space. Harrison, a five-time pro bowler, is a former Defensive Player of the Year and is regarded by many as one of the NFL's most intimidating plaers over the last decade.

"It's been a great run but all good things must come to a end," Harrison posted on his Twitter account Saturday afternoon. "Thank you Steelers Nation I will miss you all!"

Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert and Harrison's agent Bill Parise had spent the last few days atempting to work out a new deal in oder to keep the former All-Pro in Pittsburgh. However, the two sides failed to reach any common ground. Harrison was entering the final two years of a $51-million extension he signed in 2009 and was scheduled to make $6.57 million in 2013.

Harrison was set to make $7.6 million in 2014. By releasing Harrison, the Steelers create $5.105 million in cap space. The soon-to-be 35-year old linebacker will find himself looking for work for the first time since Pittsburgh made him the focal point of their 3-4 defense in 2006.