The Miami Dolphins have released linebacker Kyle Van Noy.

Miami told Van Noy of its desire to go separate ways last week, though the Dolphins hoped to trade Van Noy instead of releasing him outright.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the Dolphins made Van Noy's release official Wednesday after failing to find a trade partner.

Van Noy was just one year into a four-year deal he signed with Miami last spring. But the Dolphins, in order to create added salary cap flexibility, are cutting ties early.

The 29-year-old might not have been the same force he was in New England, but Van Noy still had success with the Dolphins. He recorded 6.0 sacks, six passes defended and a pair of forced fumbles in 14 games. Van Noy also had a career-high 10 tackles for a loss on the year.

Miami needed assets in the front seven, and Van Noy appeared to give the Dolphins a playmaker with a diverse skill set. Alas, he will be hunting for a new job.

It will be interesting to see what the Dolphins have in mind. Miami has a good deal of cap space and two first-round picks in next month's draft. Is general manager Chris Grier planning on going big or trading for a cumbersome salary?

The Dolphins certainly have every incentive to seek big gains. They went 10-6 in Brian Flores' second season as head coach, and appear to be building something sustainable.

However, Van Noy will not be part of that process. The veteran figures to be one of the top outside linebackers available in free agency.