[KC Chiefs.com] The release of Chris Chambers and Jackie Bates earlier in the day were expected. This one was not.

In a shocking move, the Chiefs announced this evening the release of veteran guard Brian Waters.

Waters appeared in 163 games and started three playoff contests in 11 years with Kansas City. He also appeared in four Pro Bowls.

Active on and off the field, he was named NFL man of the year in 2009. He was also a key member of the players’ negotiation team during the four-month lockout.

“Brian has played a key role in our progress and I am personally grateful for his contributions to this team”, said General Manager Scott Pioli, “He and I had a good discussion and mutually agreed that this is a sound football decision for both Brian and the Chiefs. Brian has been an integral part of this organization and will always be part of the Kansas City Chiefs. We wish him nothing but the best.”

Waters said, “I’d like to thank the entire Chiefs organization, especially for giving me an opportunity as a young player when other teams wouldn’t. I’m grateful for the coaches, teammates and support staff who helped me become the player and man I am today. I’d also like to thank the fans of Kansas City who cheered us on. The Chiefs and I have mutually agreed on this decision and although I look forward to continuing my career, I’ll always have a special place in my heart for Kansas City.”

Waters originally signed with Kansas City in 2000 after entering the NFL as a rookie free agent with Dallas in 1999.