As anticipated over the past month, the New Orleans Saints have officially released starting strongside linebacker Keith Mitchell, a five-year veteran. And as expected, teams are beginning to line up for the services of Mitchell, a Pro Bowl performer in 2000.

"Whatever happened (in New Orleans) is history now, although I still think they would have been smart to keep me," Mitchell said. "But I'm prepared to move on now."

Mitchell, 27, visited with Houston Texans officials Wednesday. His skills and overall athleticism could fit well into the Texans' 3-4 scheme, but at least three other teams have also demonstrated serious interest already.

"I'm excited to be here,'' Mitchell said after watching a Texans' minicamp workout. "I love the facilities and it looks like this team has a bright future.''

The roster move saves the Saints $1.925 million, the scheduled base salary for Mitchell in 2002, on this season's salary cap. The team must carry a cap charge of $405,000 in both 2002 and 2003 for remaining prorated shares of a signing bonus.

A former Texas A&M star, Mitchell immediately becomes one of the top defenders in the free agent pool. He has started 62 games in his career, and averaged 15 starts over the last four seasons, and is a solid two-way player, one who can anchor against the run and also provide outside pass rush skills.

In 2000, his Pro Bowl year, Mitchell registered 6½ sacks, one interception and returned two fumble recoveries for touchdowns. Last year, when the Saints used middle linebacker Charlie Clemons as their primary blitzer, Mitchell's numbers fell off and he posted just 1½ sacks. He met with coach Jim Haslett at least once to discuss his reduction in pass rush opportunities and conceded his unhappiness affected his play at times.

Second-year veteran Sedrick Hodge, a third-round choice in 2001 and a youngster who the Saints feel has great potential, will replace Mitchell in the starting lineup.

Mitchell entered the league with the Saints in 1997 as an undrafted free agent. He earned a starting job in his second season and retained it the balance of his New Orleans tenure. In 79 appearances, he had 368 tackles, 18 sacks and four interceptions.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior writer for ESPN.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report.