The Indianapolis Colts went through a preventive measure Sunday releasing right tackle Gosder Cherilus after two seasons.
Releasing Cherilus was a bit surprising since he has just been given clearance to do football-related activities after the injuries he went through last season.
The five-year, $35 million deal that Cherilus signed with the Colts in 2013 made him the highest-paid right tackle in the National Football League (NFL); and he backed it up in that year but was unable to do so in the 2014 season because of nagging knee and groin injuries.
Following last season, the 31-year-old football player went through knee surgery and the healing process did not allow him to join the Colts in all their offseason workouts.
In his absence this offseason, the Colts seemed excited and were anticipating for his return but suddenly they decided to part ways with him.
According to a report by Stephen Holder of The Indianapolis Star, the Colts tried to reconstruct Cherilus' pact but no agreement was reached with his agent Greg Diulus saying the offer was "not a reasonable proposal."
Cherilus is now an unrestricted free agent. Although there is a possibility of him returning to the team, it is very unlikely especially after what happened. He is expected to look for better options now that he is a free agent again, the report suggested.
Holder also said in his report, "The Colts likely still see him (Cherilus) as an injury risk given his assortment of issues in 2014. Coupled with the big contract, the Colts decided it was enough to part ways."
The most possible replacement for Cherilus according to NFL.com is Jack Mewhort who took majority of his role during the Colts' organized team activities and minicamp.
Indianapolis will open the 2015 season on the road taking on the Buffalo Bills on Sept. 13.
