Photos of Saints wide receiver Marques Colston over the years. Photos by Michael C. Hebert (New Orleans Saints Photos).
Marques Colston posted the statement below Monday evening on his website.
"First, I want to thank the New Orleans Saints for providing me the opportunity to spend the last 10 years with such a first class organization. It truly is, and always will be, a dream come true for a young athlete out of Hofstra University.
"To everyone from the Benson family, the front office, coaches, and the training and equipment staff: It has been a pleasure to be part of a family with so many great people. And to my fellow players: thanks to each of you for sharing this journey with me, challenging me to grow as a player, and an individual. It's been an honor to work beside you, and as a team we achieved something that can never be duplicated β the first Super Bowl victory for NOLA.
"And last but not least, to the most passionate fans in the world β the WHO DAT Nation β it has been my privilege to represent you on the field. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of something so much bigger than football in New Orleans. It has been amazing to witness first hand your passion and resilience, even in the face of adversity. Because of you, New Orleans will always hold a special place in my heart.
"It has truly been an honor to wear the Black & Gold, and I look forward to the next chapter of my career."