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Kyries Hebert said he could have accepted a trade to Ottawa last October, but wanted to remain loyal to the Alouettes, in the throes of another abysmal season.

But, four months later, he discovered that same loyalty can be fleeting, even after a player has been named the East Division’s outstanding defensive player at age 37.

“It’s pro football. People are going to do what they feel is best. It’s not always going to be based on people and doing right by a person. That’s fair,” Hebert said. “But life isn’t fair. I understand that. When the time comes for two people to go their separate ways, it doesn’t always have to be bitter.

“Even if you don’t need a person, you can still treat them with respect. You don’t have to lie or paint a picture different than it is.”

The Als announced the release of Hebert, upon his request, Friday morning. He was going to have a reduced role under new defensive coordinator Kahlil Carter — perhaps only 20 or 30 plays per game — next season. That would have required Hebert to restructure his contract. He balked and, despite giving him a $40,000 bonus on Feb. 1, the team granted him permission to talk to other Canadian Football League teams.