Giants release Mathias Kiwanuka

The New York Giants have parted ways with a mainstay from their defense over the past decade.

New York announced the release of defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka on Tuesday.

"Mathias has a warrior mentality," said Giants general manager Jerry Reese. "He has been the ultimate team player for this franchise, and was a true pro from day one."

Never flashy but always reliable, Kiwanuka was part of two Super Bowl teams in New York and accumulated 38.5 sacks in nine seasons. 

By releasing the former first-round pick, the Giants will save nearly $5 million on the salary cap in 2015. 

Perhaps New York can put some of the money towards retaining fellow defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul.