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Bengals release 6-year safety George Iloka

Bengals release 6-year safety George Iloka
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CINCINNATI -- The Bengals released six-year safety George Iloka Sunday in surprise move that saves them money and opens the position for second-round draft choice Jessie Bates III.

Iloka, a solid veteran who has started every game he has played since 2013, confirmed the news in his own tweet:

The Bengals save a bundle and Iloka shouldn't have trouble finding a new team, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported. He was due $5.3 million in salary and bonuses this season. 

The Cowboys might be interested in picking up Iloka, according to NFL Network's Jane Slater. The Vikings and Raiders, teams with former Bengals defensive coaches, could be landing spots, too.

WCPO's Keenan Singleton said Iloka had a positive impact on and off the field and will be missed by players and media alike.

The Bengals drafted Iloka, 28, in the fifth round in 2012. The 6-4, 225-pound safety racked up 54 tackles and an interception for the Bengals last season. 

Iloka played in 83 regular-season games with 76 starts for the Bengals over the past six seasons. His career totals include nine interceptions, 34 passes defensed and 340 tackles, according to the Bengals.