Eric Winston, a stalwart on the Texans offensive line for the last six years, has announced the team is releasing him.  Winston issued a statement via twitter late Monday afternoon, saying he is surprised but will have nothing but positive memories of his time in Houston.

According to Winston, the Texans told him the move was made to stay under the salary cap.  And they told him they did not want to ask him to restructure his contract.

Winston stepped in as a starter shortly after being drafted in the third round out of Miami in 2006.  He’s one of the most seasoned veterans on the team and is the longest tenured starter on the offensive line.

The 28 year old tackle, who announced his release via twitter, thanked Texans owner Bob McNair, the Texan organization, his fans and teammates for their support.  Winston says he’s “confident he will land on his feet.”