DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins released running back and kick returner LaMike James on Monday, coach Joe Philbin announced.
The Dolphins also released running back Jonas Gray, whom they claimed last week after Gray was cut by the New England Patriots. Gray was briefly moved up to Miami's 53-man roster over the weekend but didn't play Sunday against Washington.
James, a second-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 2012, won the kick return and punt return duties for the Dolphins in training camp. But James fumbled a kickoff Sunday in the third quarter against the Washington Redskins that he eventually recovered. In addition, James fumbled and lost a punt in the preseason finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
FoxSports.com also reported that James and teammate Jarvis Landry had a brief scuffle last week during preparation for the game against Washington. Both players quickly apologized, according to the report.
The Dolphins also promoted tight end Jake Stoneburner to the 53-man roster Monday. Miami needs depth at that position after backup tight end Dion Sims suffered a concussion Sunday against the Redskins.