THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

MIAMI -- Defensive end Vonnie Holliday was released Monday after four seasons with the Miami Dolphins, who have lost three defensive starters this off-season.

At 33, Holliday was the Dolphins' second-oldest player. He started 15 games for the AFC East champions in 2008 and led the team's defensive linemen with 46 tackles. He was third on the team with 3.5 sacks.

"These types of decisions are always difficult ones, especially with someone like Vonnie, who has been a role model both on the field and off it," general manager Jeff Ireland said in a statement. "He was one of our captains last year and was a proven leader, not just in his tenure with the Dolphins, but throughout his 11-year career. "

Holliday was scheduled to make US$2.8 million in base salary in 2009 and was due a $1.5 million roster bonus Tuesday.

He started at end in the Dolphins' 3-4 scheme last year and was joined up front by rookie Kendall Langford and nose tackle Jason Ferguson, the oldest player on the team.

Miami has already lost free safety Renaldo Hill and cornerback Andre Goodman, who both signed with Denver as unrestricted free agents.

Holliday joined the Dolphins in 2005 after being released by the Kansas City Chiefs. He spent two seasons with the Chiefs after beginning his career in Green Bay after being a first-round pick in 1998.

He has started 141 of the 151 games he has played.