Eagles release Ryan Mathews

The Philadelphia Eagles released running back Ryan Mathews on Tuesday.

Mathews missed the final game of last season with a herniated disc in his neck that required offseason surgery, and the Eagles were expected to cut him ahead of the 2017 campaign due to his $4-million base salary. He was medically cleared Tuesday, allowing the team to release him without having to pay an injury settlement.

The Eagles revamped their rushing attack by adding LeGarrette Blount via free agency and rookies Donnel Pumphrey and Corey Clement through the draft. The unit also includes Darren Sproles, Wendell Smallwood, and Byron Marshall.

Mathews, a former 12th overall draft pick by the then-San Diego Chargers in 2010, rushed for 661 yards and eight touchdowns last year with the Eagles.

"We want to thank Ryan for his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles over the past two seasons," read a team statement. "We spoke today and had a productive conversation about his future and the direction of our team going forward. First and foremost, we are glad that Ryan is healthy and has been cleared to return to football activities, but given the current state of our running back position, we feel like it is best for both sides to go in a different direction."