The New Orleans Saints released running back Kendre Miller on Saturday, a source familiar with the situation said, parting ways with their leading rusher after seven games.

Miller’s release comes as a minor surprise given that he led the Saints in both rushing attempts (57) and yards (159). But the 24-year-old was also one of the least effective running backs in the NFL: His 2.8 yards per carry were third-fewest among rushers with at least 40 carries. And the move comes after the Saints made several other changes this week in an effort to jolt their rushing attack.

Before cutting Miller, the Saints fired run game coordinator T.J. Paganetti on Monday and then claimed Audric Estime off waivers. Estime had been with the Saints last season and throughout training camp, but had most recently been with the Cleveland Browns after New Orleans waived him with an injury settlement in September.

After Miller’s release, Estime could be in line to see the bulk of New Orleans’ carries in Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns. The Saints also have all-time leading rusher Alvin Kamara, but his workload has been limited this season. The Saints previously ruled out undrafted rookie C.J. Donaldson, their third back, with concussion and shoulder injuries.

The Saints’ decision to release Miller a day before a game could be seen as curious, but New Orleans also needed a roster spot as it reportedly plans to activate rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson off injured reserve.

It remains to be seen whether the Saints attempt to bring Miller back to the practice squad, if he clears waivers.

But if Miller’s time with New Orleans is indeed over, it ends a tumultuous journey with the franchise. Miller consistently frustrated former coach Dennis Allen as the running back struggled to stay healthy during his first few seasons.

Coach Kellen Moore then gave Miller a fresh start, but the running back failed to capitalize. He tore his ACL last fall against the Chicago Bears, and though he was ready for the start of this season, he was largely ineffective.

The Saints drafted Miller in the third round of the 2023 draft out of TCU.