The Chiefs have decided to let inside linebacker Derrick Johnson hit free agency in March.
Johnson told The Star on Tuesday that he was made aware of the club’s decision during a recent discussion with general manager Brett Veach.
Johnson, a 35-year-old four-time Pro Bowler, recorded 71 tackles and seven pass deflections in 2017, his 13th NFL season, after fast-tracking his recovery from a torn Achilles the previous December.
He signed a three-year, $21 million contract extension in March 2016. When he restructured that deal a year ago, he freed up $4.25 million and voided the third year of the deal.