The New Orleans Saints have terminated the contract of WR Marques Colston, it was announced today by Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis.

Colston, 6-4, 225, was selected by New Orleans in the seventh round (252nd overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Hofstra. He played in 146 career games for the Saints with 106 starts and recorded 711 receptions for 9,759 yards (13.7 avg.) and 72 touchdown grabs. Colston is ranked first in club record books in catches, receiving yardage, receiving touchdowns, total touchdowns (72) and tied for first with 28 100-yard receiving performances. All 72 of Colston's touchdowns were parts of connections with QB Drew Brees, making the duo the fifth-most prolific all-time in scoring pass plays. He's ranked 44th all-time in NFL record books in receptions, 49th in receiving yardage and is tied for 36th in receiving touchdowns.

In 2015, Colston played in 13 games with five starts and recorded 45 receptions for 520 yards with four touchdowns. On Nov. 1 vs. the New York Giants, Colston hauled in eight receptions for 114 yards (14.3 avg.), including a 53-yard touchdown grab, as he moved into a tie for first place in club record books with his 28th 100-yard receiving game. At Tampa Bay on Dec. 13, he had two touchdown grabs to move into fourth place on the club's all-time scoring list (426).

"There have been very few players in our franchise's history that have represented this team with the class, dignity and performance of Marques Colston," said Saints Owner Tom Benson. "In the locker room, on the field and in the community, Marques has always been a true professional, a role model and a winner who played a significant role in our team becoming a perennial contender that won a Super Bowl. On behalf of our team, I wish Marques and his family nothing but the best and they will always be an important part of our organization."

"Releasing a player like Marques Colston, who did so much for our team both on and off the field is one of the hardest parts of this job," said Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis. "Coming here as a seventh round draft pick in 2006, Marques quickly developed into one of the most productive skill position players in our franchise's history. Just as important was the way that he always conducted himself both on and off the field. His professionalism, leadership and the guidance that he provided to our younger players were just as instrumental to our team's success as his significant contributions on the field."

"Upon his arrival as a seventh round draft pick ten years ago, Marques' immediate contributions were significant in getting this team turned around so quickly to the point where you win a Super Bowl in year four," said Head Coach Sean Payton. "His production, consistency, toughness and work ethic were second to none. You always knew what you were going to get from Marques and that was everything that he had. All of the characteristics that Marques possess are what we look for in a New Orleans Saint. I thank Marques for all that he did for our team and wish him the best of luck."