Bucs release Derrick Ward

TAMPA - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers released running back Derrick Ward, who they signed to a four-year, $17 million contract last year, the Tampa Tribune reported Tuesday.

Ward has had a disappointing preseason, with head coach Raheem Morris questioning the 30-year-old's conditioning after he reported to camp heavier than he was last season.

Ward cashed in after rushing for over 1,000 yards with the New York Giants in 2008, but never lived up to expectations in Tampa.

He rushed for 409 yards last season for the lowly Bucs, who finished last in the NFC South division.

Morris said Tuesday that most of the carries will now go to running backs Cadillac Williams and Earnest Graham, with rookie Kareem Huggins advancing on the depth chart.