Running-back Steven Jackson will reportedly end his record-setting career with the St. Louis Rams according to ESPN.
The Rams' career rushing leader plans to void the final year in his contract to become a free agent March 12, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported Monday.
Jackson has topped 1,000 yards rushing for eight seasons running. But with his 30th birthday approaching in July, the Rams appeared uninterested in giving Jackson a lucrative extension beyond the 2013 season. When the sides were unable to reach agreement before last season, the Rams gave Jackson the ability to void his deal in March 2013.
Jackson has 2,395 carries for 10,135 yards and 56 touchdowns over his career, but he has never played for a winning team in the NFL.
Jackson is scheduled to earn $7 million in salary for the 2013 season. It's unclear whether the Rams would have kept Jackson on their roster at that price. The team drafted running backs Isaiah Pead and Daryl Richardson a year ago. Richardson in particular showed promise right away, rushing for 475 yards with a 4.8-yard average.
Jackson, who turns 30 in July, still has a place in the NFL. Last season he rushed 257 times for 1,042 yards and four touchdowns, his eighth consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season.
The Atlanta Falcons, who could part ways with Michael Turner, are an obvious suitor. Other Super Bowl contenders with running back needs, such as the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants or Denver Broncos, could also be linked to the sturdy veteran.
