Veteran Running Backs Released

In the past two days, both veteran running backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook were released. Tomlinson played with the Chargers for nine years and has a total of 153 touch downs, which is barely behind Hall of Fame members Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith. Brian Westbrook, the eight-year Eagle, led the league in 2007 with 2,104 yards from scrimmage. In the same season, he rushed for 1,333 yards and accounted for 12 touchdowns.
Both men were released for different reasons. Tomlinson is believed to be released because he rushed for a career-low 730 yards this past season. This was the only season of his career when he did not reach 1,000 yards. Westbrook, however, didn't play in eight games this season due to concussions and an injured ankle so he was believed to be injury prone.
Personally, I believe the reasons the two were released were legitimate, but that there was more to it. The underlying reason both were released in my eyes is because of their financial worth. Westbrook was due to make $7.25 million the next season and "LT" in his last season made $7.58 million, which is a lot of money.
By releasing these players, both teams can pick up rookie running backs in the upcoming draft and pay less in hoping for a better performance.