Arizona Cardinals release former top-10 pick Ernie Sims

The Arizona Cardinals have released linebacker Ernie Sims. Sims was taken with the ninth pick of the 2006 draft by the Lions.

The Arizona Cardinals have released linebacker Ernie Sims, the team announced Thursday. 

Sims was the No. 9 pick in the 2006 draft by the Detroit Lions. He started every game for Detroit in his first three seasons. 

The Cardinals' first depth chart of the preseason listed Sims as the third-string inside linebacker. Arizona has eight other inside linebackers in training camp. 

Sims spent last season with the Dallas Cowboys, appearing in 12 games and making six starts. His last season as a full-time starter was in 2010 with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Cardinals open the preseason on Saturday against the Houston Texans.

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- Dan Gartland