Edge's role could increase at New England

Running back Edgerrin James' frustration over his playing time isn't likely to subside until he finds a new employer. And that will come after the season.

James, benched after the seventh game, has played sparingly since, although he could play a larger role Sunday in New England. Backup J.J. Arrington might not play because of a knee injury, and that could mean more time for James.

"We said all along that we're going to need Edgerrin," coach Ken Whisenhunt said. "He's an experienced back. He's played in New England before."

James, however, wants a larger role. This is the first time in his career that he has not started. Since losing the job to Tim Hightower, James hasn't played in three games and has seven carries for 15 yards.

James declined comment, but his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said his client is frustrated.

"He feels like he can help so much," Rosenhaus said. "It's befuddling for him. Since the change has been made, there hasn't been an improvement. He's certainly not going to create a distraction but the level of frustration, it's rough."

As a starter, James carried 108 times for 380 yards, a 3.51-yard average. In his starts, Hightower has gained 246 yards on 81 carries. A 3.03-yard average.

James has played well against the Patriots. In nine games, he's averaged 105.6 yards rushing.

The Cardinals are sticking with Hightower as the starter because coaches view him as more of a big-play threat. James has had just four runs of more than 20 yards in three seasons with the Cardinals.

(azcentral.com)