From John Clayton of ESPN.com:

Drew Rosenhaus, agent for Arizona Cardinals running back Edgerrin James, confirmed an internet report that his client has asked to be released, but the request was rejected.

"We spoke with [general manager] Rod Graves because Edgerrin still believes he is a 1,000-yard back and he is healthy and he is still capable of being a 1,000-yard back for a team," Rosenhaus said. "He is not playing now, and there are teams that are banged up at the running back position that he could help. We didn't get the answer we were hoping for."

                                                                                                

Rosenhaus said the request to be released was made last week and that he will continue to dialog with Cardinals management. James has lost his starting job to rookie Tim Hightower. Over the past three games, James has had only three carries for 5 yards.

"Edgerrin isn't trying to cause any problems," Rosenhaus said. "He has had a Hall of Fame career and he has enjoyed his stay in Arizona. But it's apparent that he's probably not going to back with the Cardinals next season. If that's the case, he can move and help another team and get a start now."