Running back Ben Tate released by Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns have waived running back Ben Tate just over half-a-season into his two-year deal with the franchise.

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Tate signed a $6m deal last summer and was expected to become the Browns' No 1 rusher, but his role has been diminished by the impressive performance of rookies Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell.

He was demoted to the No 3 role last weekend, losing nine yards on his only two carries, and he departs after rushing for only 333 yards on 106 carries - Tate also scored four touchdowns.

West and Crowell have combined for 766 yards and eight scores.

"With all the transactions we make while constructing our roster, it will always be our intent to do what is best for our football team," said general manager Ray Farmer.

"This move is no different and we wish Ben the best going forward."

Browns coach Mike Pettine said he would continue to ride the hot hand going forward, and Tate's release could mean a bigger role for reserve rusher Glenn Winston, who has been a stalwart of their special teams line-up this season.

“We also look at running styles against a particular opponent,” said Pettine.

“You look at the game. These are the runs that we have for this game plan. Who executes these particular runs the best? It’s more than just, ‘Hey, he looked better in practice than he did.’ Sometimes it’s a style matchup decision.”