NFL: Saints release Lewis, Whitehead

New Orleans, LA (Sports Network) - The New Orleans Saints released wide receiver Michael Lewis and defensive lineman Willie Whitehead on Friday.
Lewis is the team's all-time leader in kickoff returns (243 for 5,903 yards) and punt returns (142 for 1,482 yards) and had four touchdown returns with the Saints, three on kickoffs and one on a punt return.
In 2002, Lewis set single-season records for kickoff return yardage (1,807) and punt return yards (625) and was voted to the Pro Bowl. His 2,432 combined return yards that season set an NFL record.
"Michael is part of the fabric of our community and will always have a special place in the history of our club," Saints owner Tom Benson said. "The way he made our team, as a player who worked hard, wasn't drafted, supported his family and followed his dream, is unique and something we're all proud to be a part of."
Whitehead appeared in 105 games with New Orleans and tallied 266 tackles, 24.5 sacks, a pair of forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries in his career."
Both Michael and Willie made big contributions to our success last year and we hope they have successful futures in the NFL," Saints coach Sean Payton said. "They are quality people who have proven that hard work and dedication can get you just as far as reputation or pure talent. We have the utmost respect for them as individuals and players."
The Saints have also waived rookie tackle Peter Dyakowski, an undrafted free agent from LSU.