Updated 5:10 p.m. with Browns statement.

CLEVELAND -- The Browns today released offensive lineman Eric Steinbach, the team announced.

"These types of decisions are the difficult part of this job, especially when it involves a player such as Eric Steinbach," said Browns general manager Tom Heckert in a statement. "Eric exhibited tremendous leadership and passion for the game during his time here. We want to thank him for his contributions."

Steinbach was set to make $6 million in 2012, and the Browns will now save that money on their salary cap. Steinbach, who will immediately become a free agent, sat out all last season after undergoing back surgery. He was replaced by rookie Jason Pinkston.

Steinbach, 31, spent four seasons with the Bengals before signing a blockbuster seven-year, $49.5 million free agent contract with the Browns in 2007.

Steinbach started all but two games at left guard in the previous four seasons for the Browns. According to nfp, he gave up just 12.5 sacks in his 62 starts with the Browns.

Steinbach and his agent Jack Bechta released a joint statement to nationalfootballpost, a website Bechta contributes to:

“Eric Steinbach could part ways with the Cleveland Browns. Asked to take a significant salary reduction in late February, the two sides have not been able to reach an agreement on a new deal, so Steinbach has asked for his release. However, the two sides will keep talking while Steinbach will simultaneously explore the free agent market.”

Steinbach said in the statement:

"It has been a good ride in Cleveland and I hope it can continue. I'm proud to say that the offensive line has been a bright spot through the past few seasons. It has been a privilege to play for the city of Cleveland and it's rich tradition. Mr. Lerner has always treated me with respect and I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to work for him and his organization. I will continue to work with the Browns through my agent in hopes of striking a deal that is practical and fair for both sides. In the mean time, I will explore other opportunities.

"If I do move on, I want to thank the people and fans of Cleveland who have treated my family and I with great support and hospitality. If my time here comes to an end, I want the people of this great city to remember one thing; "You stay classy Cleveland!"

Bechta said:

"After suffering from nerve-related symptoms in early August of 2011, the 31-year-old had a procedure done on August 30, 2011 in order to remove a disk fragment from his spinal nerve. He is on schedule for a complete recovery and wants to play for four more years. He should be fully cleared to perform all football related task by April 15th.”