"Clinton Portis wanted to be what he once was: The Man. The Redskins, though, could not guarantee that would be the case.

So rather than stick around for less money, Portis and the Redskins settled on a divorce, ending a seven-year relationship that produced lots of rushing yards, controversy and silly costumes.

As expected, Washington released Portis on Monday rather than keep him around this season for approximately $8 million.

That's too high a figure for a running back who will turn 30 in September and has played in only 13 games combined the past two seasons because of injuries.

The question now becomes: who replaces Portis? Ryan Torain showed his ability last season -- rushing for 742 yards -- but injuries have plagued his three-year career. Keiland Williams did an adequate job in protection and as a part-time back. But the Redskins could use more speed and a durable runner.

Meanwhile, Portis said on 106.7 "The Fan" that the Redskins offered to restructure his contract, but he did not want to return unless he was going to be the primary runner.

"It's hard ... to accept not being the go-to guy or not being the man after carrying the organization for so long," Portis said. "There's no need to try and hold on and stick around when we can part ways on good terms."

He exits Washington as the franchise's second all-time leading rusher with 6,824 yards -- trailing only Hall of Famer John Riggins (7,472). Portis ranks 26th in NFL history with 9,923 rushing yards."