The Kansas City Chiefs and general manager Scott Pioli have mutually agreed to part ways.
Pioli had been the general manager since January 2009.
"After several productive conversations, we made the difficult decision to part ways with Scott Pioli and allow him to pursue other opportunities," said Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt in a statement Friday. "Scott has been an invaluable member of the Chiefs family since joining us in 2009, and we sincerely appreciate his tremendous contributions over the last four years.
"I know that this was a difficult decision for Scott as well. He has a great deal of appreciation for the history of this franchise, for our players, coaches and employees, and especially our great fans."
Pioli's departure could clear the way for Andy Reid to take over the football operations. Reid, the former Philadelphia Eagles head coach, is reportedly close to a deal to become the new Chiefs coach.
The Chiefs fired Romeo Crennel as coach the day after completing a dismal 2-14 season.
Pioli's four-year run as Chiefs GM included an AFC West title in 2010 with a 10-6 record, but the team went just 9-23 the past two seasons.
"The bottom line is that I did not accomplish all of what I set out to do," said Pioli in a statement. "To the Hunt family -- to the great fans of the Kansas City Chiefs -- to the players, all employees and alumni, I truly apologize for not getting the job done."
Pioli joined the Chiefs after nine years as vice president of player personnel with the New England Patriots. He also served in various roles with the Browns (1992-95), Ravens (1996) and Jets (1997-2000).
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