James Farrior

The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their offseason roster purge Friday, announcing Farrior and defensive end Aaron Smith will be released before the next league year begins March 13. Farrior was so highly respected by his teammates they named him a defensive captain in each of his final eight seasons.

Posted: Mar. 2, 2012 5:17 PM ET | Last Updated: Mar. 2, 2012 5:22 PM ET

Farrior and Smith served as the backbone of a defense that led the franchise to two Super Bowl titles and three AFC championships over the last decade, a period in which the Steelers defense finished ranked in the top 10 in the league every season. It's uncertain whether Farrior will attempt to sign with another team.