Source: Bernard Pollard wants Titans to release him

PHOENIX – Titans safety Bernard Pollard has requested his release from his contract, a source familiar with the situation said.

Pollard, a nine-year NFL veteran, has one year remaining on the two-year deal he signed with the Titans. He's scheduled to make $3.1 million in 2015.

Pollard made the request to Titans general manager Ruston Webster at the end of the 2014 season, the source said. Pollard, who finished the season on injured reserve, hasn't been informed of the team's decision.

On Friday, the popular safety sent out a message via Twitter questioning the team's decision to part ways with Lake Dawson, the team's vice president of player personnel, earlier in the day.

Webster could not be reached for comment Friday.

Pollard, who turned 30 last month, is recovering from a ruptured Achilles injury. He won a Super Bowl with the Ravens before joining the Titans in 2013.

Pollard said during the final taping of The Tennessean's Bernard Pollard Show earlier this month he plans to play in 2015, but he indicated then he wasn't sure about his future with the Titans.

"I am not getting any younger, so I want to win, I really do. I want to win,'' Pollard said of his future earlier this month. "Looking at how things took place this year, looking at where (the Titans) need to be for next year, that is a tough, tough question, and I don't even know if they can give me the answer. I have one year on my deal, but it is going to take some time."

Pollard suffered the Achilles injury in Week 5 against the Browns and was placed on injured reserve. He had 26 tackles and a sack through the first five games following a year when he tallied 142 stops while starting all 16 games.

He's been out of a walking boot for months and is making progress in rehab. Pollard played with the Chiefs, Texans and Ravens before joining the Titans. He's known for being a big hitter and for his outspoken personality.

Veteran George Wilson started in place of Pollard, but Wilson's contract is up with the team. Daimion Stafford, a 2013 draft pick, also saw significant playing time because of Pollard's injury.

Michael Griffin, the team's starting free safety, is under contract through the 2016 season. He's scheduled to earn a base salary of $6.3 million in 2015.



