The Carolina Panthers have released wide receiver Steve Smith following 13 seasons at the club, with the news announced on Thursday after several rumours in the previous days.

Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman said that although releasing Smith was not an easy decision to make, it was necessary for the franchise to continue to improve next season.

"This was not an easy decision," Gettleman said in a statement. "As a team, we made a step forward last year; however we are also a team in transition, which is a part of the NFL.

"When I took this position I knew that difficult decisions would have to be made along the way. To move on from a storied veteran player is probably the most difficult of all. A decision not to be taken lightly. However, after much thought I feel very strongly it's the right one."

Smith started more than 10 games in all but two of his 13 seasons with the Panthers.