Updated

Minnesota Vikings veteran punter Chris Kluwe said Monday he's been released by the team.

"So long, Minnesota, and thanks for all the fish!" Kluwe wrote on Twitter. "Thank you to all the fans, my teammates, and the Wilf family for the past 8.5 years. I wouldn't have traded it for anything."

In eight years with the Vikings, Kluwe launched 623 punts, averaging 44.4 yards per punt. He became expendable when the Vikings selected punter Jeff Locke in the fifth round of this year's draft.

Kluwe is known off the field for his views on political and social issues, most notably taking a firm stance in support of gay marriage and gay rights.