With 9,429 yards, Alexander is Seattle's all-time leading rusher and he is the franchise's only MVP winner after he ran for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2005 while helping lead the team to the Super Bowl.
After that season, Alexander's effectiveness seemed to take a hit when he suffered the first injuries of his career.
In 2006 he managed to play in only 10 games and finished with 896 yards and seven touchdowns and in 2007 he suffered a wrist injury that limited his productivity to 13 games played while amassing only 716 yards and four touchdowns.
Seattle signed two veteran running backs this offseason -- Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett -- and many speculated at that time that Alexander's days were numbered.
Alexander released the following statement later in the day:
We received the news from
the Seahawks’ front office today that I have been released. While it really
isn’t a surprise, this news marks a major transition in my life. I started
my NFL career in Seattle and hoped I could remain with the team through the rest
of my days as a player. That said, things change.
I will be playing for
another NFL team this fall, and doing everything I can to contribute. I am healthy,
energized and looking forward to beginning the next chapter of my NFL career.
I want to thank the
Seahawks and Coach Holmgren for all they have done for me and my family over
the years. I have nothing but respect and affection for the Seahawks staff,
my teammates and the organization. I wish them the best.
I especially want to
thank the Seahawks fans. You made me feel proud every time I stepped on the
field as a Seahawk. I look forward to hopefully returning to Qwest Field one
day to play against the Seahawks, and the daunting task of facing the 12th Man
—Seahawks fans are among the best.
Finally, Valerie and
I want everyone to know that Seattle is home for us, and it will remain so no
matter where I play next. We have made far too many wonderful friends to say
goodbye. My family will remain in the Seattle area, and when my days in the
NFL do eventually come to an end, I plan to retire here. Our hearts are woven
into the fabric of this community, we are blessed to be part of it, and we enjoy
contributing to it in every way we can.
Thank you, Seattle.
You have become a part of me and you will forever remain in my heart.