KIRKLAND, Wash. -- The Seattle Seahawks released linebacker Levon Kirkland on Friday.

	Kirkland

Kirkland, a 10-year veteran who played one season for the Seahawks, finished with 101 tackles, one sack and forced two fumbles in 2001.

Kirkland had his sixth straight 100-tackle season, and eighth overall, pushing his career tackle total to 1,005. He started 16 games last season, extending his string of consecutive starts to 123.

The Seahawks did not say exactly why they released him. Kirkland was not available for comment and calls to his agent were not immediately returned.

"Levon filled an important role for this team and its development last season,'' said coach and general manager Mike Holmgren. ``He brought toughness and leadership to the club while our young guys were growing and maturing.

"We have decided to move in a different direction, but want to thank Levon for his contributions to the Seattle Seahawks.''

Kirkland signed a $7.5 million, three-year contract, with a $2.3 million signing bonus before last season.

He helped the Pittsburgh Steelers reach the 1995 Super Bowl and was named to the Pro Bowl in 1996 and 1997.

The Steelers released him last offseason to save his $4.77 million salary.

In Seattle, Kirkland was reunited with linebacker Chad Brown, his teammate in Pittsburgh from 1993-96.