Steelers Parting Ways With LB Vince Williams

The Pittsburgh Steelers are down another starter Tuesday as veteran linebacker Vince Williams has been released.

"The Steelers are releasing veteran linebacker Vince Williams, per sources," ESPN's Jeremy Fowler tweeted. "Williams played eight years in Pittsburgh and amassed nearly 479 tackles and 20.5 sacks. The move saves $4 million on the cap."

Williams played in 121 games, starting 69, in eight seasons with the team.

He has 444 career tackles, 48 tackles for a loss, 43 quarterback hits, 20.5 sacks, five pass defenses, five fumble recoveries and two interceptions, the team said.

Williams reportedly told Fowler that he "has a lot of football left and is eager to provide veteran leadership and play for a team that needs it."

The 31-year-old has spent the past eight seasons in Pittsburgh. The Steelers selected him in the sixth round of the 2013 draft.

ESPN reports that with Williams' release, Pittsburgh is down four defensive starters since the free agency negotiating period began — Bud Dupree, Mike Hilton and Tyson Alualu signed free-agent deals elsewhere.