METAIRIE, La. — The New Orleans Saints have released veteran defensive tackle Brian Young, who has been hampered by knee problems since last season.

Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said Tuesday the decision was very difficult. He calls Young "one of the hardest working individuals I have ever met."

The nine-year veteran played the past five seasons for New Orleans after spending his first four seasons in St. Louis. He appeared in eight games in 2008, with 13 tackles, including one sack.