The Facts: The Cardinals announced Monday that they released Wells and running back Fozzy Whitaker.

Diehards Line:Beanie Wells never quite lived up to his first round billing under former coach Ken Whisenhunt. New coach Bruce Arians doesn't even want to try Wells out. This was less about money and more about Wells' talent and scheme fit. He was due $1.4 million in 2013, hardly an onerous number for a player that should be competing to start at running back. Arians made it clear in offseason comments, however, that the new regime is higher on third-year pro Ryan Williams. The Cardinals have also been linked in free agency rumors to Rashard Mendenhall, who played under Arians in Pittsburgh, and Reggie Bush. ... It remains to be seen Wells broke out with 1,047 yards and ten touchdowns in 2011, but he's missed 13 games over the last 13 years. He has also faced questions about his dedication.