Cards Cut Edgerrin James

As expected, the Arizona Cardinals have released running back Edgerrin James. James, a ten-year veteran who joined the Cardinals three years ago, began lobbying for his release not long after he was benched for rookie Tim Hightower during the 2008 regular season. Even after James regained his starting job for the postseason run, he wasn’t regarded as a guy who would remain with the team for the final season of his four-year deal. And he still wanted out. Once the Cardinals picked Ohio State running back Chris “Beanie” Wells in round one, it became obvious that the defending NFC champs would move on. The transaction frees up $5 million in cap space, which in theory could be used to sign receiver Anquan Boldin to a new contract. The Cardinals also cut defensive end/linebacker Travis LaBoy and cornerback Rod Hood. “It’s never easy to release veteran players who have contributed to the team’s success and these three individuals certainly fall into that category,” coach Ken Whisenhunt said in a team-issued release. “But like every decision we make, it simply comes down to what is in the best interest of our football team and what gives us the best chance for success. We’re grateful to all three of them for their contributions and wish them nothing but the best in the future.”