The Arizona Cardinals have released safety Adrian Wilson, who spent 12 seasons with the franchise.

Wilson joined the Cardinals in 2001 as a third-round draft pick. He has been selected to five Pro Bowls and his 181 games played rank as the fifth-highest total in club history.

"Decisions like this are never easy but it's especially tough with someone like Adrian because he's been such a special player and important part of this organization for the last 12 years," said Cardinals general manager Steve Keim in a statement Friday. "His disruptive style meant opponents always had to know where (he) lined up and the statistics illustrate all that he accomplished through his play on the field. Just as impressive, though, has been the leadership, discipline and determination he brought day in and day out, year in and year out."

Wilson, who had signed a four-year extension last July, has 987 career tackles, 27 interceptions and 25 1/2 sacks. He is one of just six players with at least 25 picks and 25 sacks, and his interception total ranks sixth in team history.

"All of us thank Adrian for what he has meant not only to our organization but also to this community," said Cardinals president Michael Bidwill. "In every franchise, there is a select group of players whose contributions earn them iconic status and for us, Adrian Wilson will always be one of those players. He joined us at a key time in our organization's evolution and helped lead us into a new era. We will always be grateful for that and look forward to the day when he's placed in the Ring of Honor at University of Phoenix Stadium alongside the other all-time great Cardinals."

The 33-year-old North Carolina State product notched 54 tackles, three sacks and one interception in 15 games last season.