Green (2007) and Greenwood (2005) signed with the Texans as free agents, and both lost their starting jobs last season. Green, 31, would have counted $6.5 million against the cap, but after two injury-plagued seasons, the Texans did what just about everyone expected and released him.

The emergence of rookie Steve Slaton, who rushed for 1,282 yards and had 1,659 from scrimmage, made Green expendable.

"Ahman was a different deal because of the injuries," Texans coach Gary Kubiak said. "Slaton's performance helped us make this decision.

"I told Ahman I appreciated what he gave us and that I was sorry it didn't work out. He wants to keep playing, and I wished him the best."

Greenwood, 30, would have counted $6.2 million against the cap. Xavier Adibi replaced Greenwood in the starting lineup. He joined the Texans after playing his first five seasons with Miami.

"Morlon's one of the finest guys I've ever coached," Kubiak said. "He worked his tail off and played well for us.

"He'll play for somebody, but as I told him, we're going in a different direction with Adibi."

Green came to the Texans from Green Bay and signed a four-year contract worth $23 million. He suffered a knee injury in his first game and finished his first season on injured reserve. He suffered groin and knee injuries last season.

In two seasons, Green carried 144 times for 554 yards and five touchdowns. He made $10.5 million.

The Texans saved $4.5 million on Greenwood and $4 million on Green.