Veteran RB Edgerrin James spent three seasons with the Cardinals before being released Tuesday. (Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images)

As expected, the Arizona Cardinals released RB Edgerrin James on Tuesday afternoon, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. The team later confirmed the move in a press release.

James, who asked for his release after his role was diminished last season, became expendable once the team drafted Ohio State RB Beanie Wells in the first round Saturday. James was due $5 million, which now comes off Arizona’s projected salary cap. He becomes an unrestricted free agent.

Several teams already have contacted James’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, who said the running back could finalize a deal with another team in the near future. Rosenhaus didn’t disclose what teams had reached out to him, but he made similar claims after another client, WR Terrell Owens, was released by the Dallas Cowboys shortly before striking a one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills.

The Cardinals also announced the release of veteran DE Travis LaBoy and CB Rod Hood. According to the NFL Players Association Web site, LaBoy was scheduled to earn $2 million in base salary next season, and Hood was due to receive $3 million.

Some of the cap space that was cleared could be used to help sign WR Anquan Boldin to a desired contract extension.

– Steve Wyche

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