NFL-Remorseful Colts release wide receiver Harrison

NEW YORK, Feb 24 (Reuters) - Pro-Bowl wide receiver Marvin Harrison was released by the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday, breaking up the greatest pass-catch partnership in the NFL.

"We today have released Marvin Harrison because of salary cap considerations," Colts president Bill Polian said in a statement on the team's website (www.colts.com).

"Marvin let us know his preference was to be released.

"Both (Colts owner) Jim Irsay and I felt very strongly that after Marvin's long and dedicated service to the Colts, we would, in this painful circumstance, be guided by Marvin's wishes."

Together Harrison and quarterback Peyton Manning formed the most successful passing partnership in the NFL, setting records for most completions (953), most yards (12,766) and touchdowns (112).

Harrison, who has spent his entire 13-year career in Indianapolis, ranks second in NFL career receptions with 1,102 while his streak of 190 consecutive games with at least one catch is the second longest in the league behind Jerry Rice's 274.

The 36-year-old's 143 receptions in 2002 remain the league single season record.

Seeking to clear room under the salary cap, the Colts had asked one of the NFL's highest-paid receivers to restructure his contract but could not reach an agreement, ending the eight-time Pro Bowler's time in Indianapolis.

"This is a sad day for the Colts," Polian said.

"Marvin Harrison, in addition to being a certain Hall of Famer, has been a good friend, model professional and a loyal and dedicated teammate.

"His record-setting achievements brought about by immense talent, work ethic and dignified professional demeanour have thrilled Colts fans for a generation.

"Marvin today takes his place alongside Raymond Berry, forming the greatest receiving tandem in Colts history.

"He will, in due time, join Raymond in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and take his rightful place with the greatest players in the history of the game." (Writing by Steve Keating in Detroit; Editing by John O'Brien)