Bills release LB Nick Barnett, safety George Wilson

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- The Buffalo Bills have begun reshaping their defense under new coach Doug Marrone by releasing two veterans: linebacker Nick Barnett and

Nick Barnett, a 10-year NFL veteran, did not miss a game in his two seasons with the Bills before being released Monday :: /Getty Images

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- The Buffalo Bills have begun reshaping their defense under new coach Doug Marrone by releasing two veterans: linebacker Nick Barnett and safety George Wilson.

General manager Buddy Nix said the cuts were made Monday with the intention of moving the team forward and freeing up spots to allow Buffalo's younger players to step into those roles.

Barnett is a 10-year NFL veteran, who never missed a start in his two seasons in Buffalo after signing with the team in free agency. Wilson was a respected leader and voted a five-time team captain during his eight seasons in Buffalo. He was also the team's NFL Players Association representative.

The shake-up takes place a little over a month since Marrone took over after Chan Gailey was fired following three losing seasons.