Saints release Keenan Lewis
The New Orleans Saints released cornerback Keenan Lewis, multiple sources confirmed Friday.
Lewis also confirmed the news in an Instagram post, thanking fans for their support.
The 30-year-old signed a five-year, $26.3-million contract with the Saints in March 2013, after beginning his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
"They went in a different direction and it is cool with me. I still have a lot of football left in me. I'm just excited. I'm just fortunate that I had an opportunity to show the youth in New Orleans (that you can accomplish) whatever you set your dreams to," Lewis said to ESPN's Josina Anderson.
The veteran cornerback also claimed he never got along with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, leading to his release.
"Dennis Allen, we never got along since day one. It was something that happened years ago. Something that has been in the record books. He just didn't want me part of it. By that happening, it goes like that some times. …You get a defensive coordinator who comes in, you've got a older guy who proved himself … so I seen it coming. … Now my thing is to prove to him once again after seven years. Like (Allen) told me seven years ago, I didn't have what it takes to make it," Lewis said.
Lewis recorded six tackles in six games last season, before being placed on season-ending injured reserve after battling through numerous injuries.
P.J. Williams is expected to take Lewis' place in the starting lineup.