Raiders salute Janikowski as 18-year run ends

The Oakland Raiders confirmed they won't bring back long-time kicker Sebastian Janikowski in 2018, ending his tenure with the club after 18 seasons.

Team owner Mark Davis issued a statement Thursday addressing Janikowski's pending departure, as he'll become a free agent after his 40th birthday in March:

The Raider Nation salutes Sebastian Janikowski as the sun sets on his illustrious career with the Oakland Raiders. He joined the team as a surprise first-round pick in the 2000 Draft and finishes his time in Oakland as one of the greatest or perhaps the greatest kicker in pro football history. His powerful left leg produced an NFL-record 55 field goals of 50-or-more yards. The motto "Once a Raider, Always a Raider" has never been more true as his 18-year career makes him the longest-tenured player in Raiders history. Sebastian, his wife, Lori, and their three children will always be a loved and treasured part of the Raiders family.

Janikowski missed the entire 2017 campaign due to a back injury.

It was reported Wednesday that Oakland had decided to move on from Janikowski.