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In a move that was certainly inevitable, the Carolina Panthers cut running back DeShaun Foster, ending the relationship with the former second round draft pick and clearing about $4.75 million dollars in cap space. Foster, who never had a one thousand yard rushing season, had more fumbles than touchdowns last season and never developed into the complete running back the Panthers had hoped for when he was drafted.   The writing was on the wall when the Panthers drafted running back DeAngelo Williams two years ago, causing Foster to share the number of carries with Williams. "It was a hard decision, but we felt like it was time to go in a different direction," said Panthers general manager Marty Hurney. "DeShaun gave us everything he had and did everything that was asked of him while he was here."

What's intriguing about Foster being cut today is that there have been multiple reports that the Panthers were trying to trade Foster instead of having to cut him. But many teams probably felt that Foster's falue wasn't worth the high salary cap hit that came along with the trade. Also, there have been rumors, as discussed on Carolinasportsnet.com, that the Panthers are about to sign either Alge Crumpler or Mushin Muhammed. Releasing Foster frees up the cap space needed to sign a player immediately.

Don't be surprised to see Foster return to a West coast team. Foster, who's from the west coast, has long desired to return to be closer to his family.  "I very much enjoyed my time in Carolina," Foster said in a statement. "I can't thank the Richardson family enough for how gracious they were to me and my family. While I certainly will miss my teammates and friends in Charlotte, my quest for a Super Bowl ring is far from over."

The move to cut Foster also leads speculation that the Panthers will either sign a big name running back in the off season or possibly draft a running back in the upcoming draft. Players that have been mentioned as possibe free agent candidates are: Michael Turner, Julius Jones and TJ Duckett. Running backs the Panthers may try to grab in the draft include: Jonathan Stewart, Rashard Mendenhall and Matt Forte. Expect the Panthers to announce a free agent acquisition within the next couple of days.