Patriots DL Vince Wilfork took to Twitter this morning to inform his nearly 300,000 followers that New England has declined to pick up his contract option, thereby making the 33-year-old run stuffer a free agent. Wilfork released a heartfelt letter on the social media site, thanking the organization and fans of the only NFL team he’s played for in his 11-year career.
Morning guys … Please read below this will be my only statement pic.twitter.com/gClv03hqet
— Vince Wilfork (@wilfork75) March 5, 2015
By making the move the Patriots save themselves $8 million against the cap ($4 million being a roster bonus due March 10), however, despite his age, they lose one of the league’s premier defensive lineman. Wilfork has stated he plans to continue playing, and should have no problem finding a number of suitors for the upcoming season.
Wilfork had a $4 M roster bonus due on 3/10, which they aren't going to pay him.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 5, 2015