Cowboys Cut Bledsoe

As expected, the Dallas Cowboys have parted ways with quarterback Drew Bledsoe.

In the move that comes as no surprise, the Dallas Cowboys released veteran quarterback Drew Bledsoe Thursday.

Bledsoe, who lost his starting job almost halfway through the 2006 season to Tony Romo, played just two seasons in Dallas. He finished his career with the Cowboys with a 12-10 record as a starter.

By cutting Bledsoe, the Cowboys avoid paying him a $1 million roster bonus.

"I spoke with Drew today and told him that this was primarily a cap decision and that the door was very much open for him being a part of our future," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said. "Drew has been a solid leader for our team and a true professional both on and off the field."

Bledsoe started six games last season, leading the Cowboys to a 3-3 record. He currently ranks fifth in NFL history in passing attempts (6,717), completions (3,839) and seventh in passing yards with 44,611.

With Bledsoe out of the picture, Dallas is expected to pursue a veteran quarterback this offseason to serve as Romo's back up next year.

Cowboys Also Release Hannam, Whitley
The Cowboys also made two other moves Thursday, releasing rookie offensive lineman E.J. Whitley and tight end Ryan Hannam.

Whitley, a seventh round draft pick out of Texas Tech, never played a down during his rookie season after tearing his ACL in his left knee during a rookie mini-camp last summer.

Hannam also struggled with injuries, as he played in just two games after signing with Dallas last offseason. He was placed on injured reserve after discovering he had a degenerative condition in his right knee.