By DENNIS WASZAK Jr., AP Sports Writer

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — The New York Jets have released linebacker David Harris, a stunning move in which they part ways with the second-leading tackler in franchise history.

Harris, who practiced with the team Tuesday and was in the locker room afterward, will save the Jets $6.5 million on the salary cap by being cut.

The move came as a surprise because of Harris' status as the Jets' longest-tenured player and one if its most-respected leaders. Coach Todd Bowles calls it "an organizational decision," and discussions about redoing Harris' contract "broke down."

The 33-year-old middle linebacker was a second-round draft pick out of Michigan in 2007.

The Jets reacquired Demario Davis from Cleveland last Thursday for safety Calvin Pryor, but Bowles says he doesn't believe that played a role in the Jets' decision to release Harris. Davis is the front-runner to assume Harris' starting spot.

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