Former New Orleans Saints kicker Garrett Hartley has thanked the team's fans following his departure from the franchise.

Hartley was cut by the Saints on Tuesday following a poor performance during their surprise loss to the St Louis Rams last weekend.

Hartley's career-low conversion rate of 73% this season was a large contributing factor in coach Sean Payton's decision to release the six-year veteran.

The kicker wrote on his Twitter page: "I would like to start off by saying I have been blessed with the opportunity that the @Saints & ownership have given me. The memories that were made with this team will live in my heart forever!

"I can't say enough for my teammates and their support. And finally the Who Dat Nation. Y'all's passion for the game and this team are second to none. It's been an honor to wear the Black & Gold."

While with the Saints in 2010, Hartley became the first player in NFL history to make three kicks of more than 40 yards in the Super Bowl to help the team to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy.