Seahawks release Shaun Alexander

Published 9:26 pm Tuesday, April 22, 2008

SEATTLE — The Seattle Seahawks officially cut ties with their all-time leading rusher on Tuesday afternoon, releasing running back Shaun Alexander after the 30-year-old underwent a physical on his surgically repaired left wrist.

In a press release sent out by Alexander’s public-relations representatives, the running back confirmed Tuesday afternoon that he had been released.

“We received the news from the Seahawks’ front office today that I have been released,” a statement from Firmani Public Relations read, quoting Alexander. “While it really isn’t a surprise, this news marks a major transition in my life. I started my NFL career in Seattle and hoped I could remain with the team through the rest of my days as a player. That said, things change.”

Alexander added that he plans to continuing playing in the NFL.

Seahawks president/general manager Tim Ruskell said the decision to cut Alexander was a difficult one.

“We thank Shaun for his commitment both on and off the field over the last eight years,” Ruskell said. “He played a huge role in the renaissance of football in Seattle and for that we will always be grateful.”

Alexander, 30, is the team’s all-time leading rusher but has struggled with injuries and a lack of production in each of the past two seasons.

Seattle already added possible replacements in free agency, signing veterans Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett to play the halfback position

For more on Alexander’s release, and his eight-year career in Seattle, read Wednesday’s print edition of The Herald.