SANTA CLARA, Calif. » Running back LaMichael James was released by the San Francisco 49ers on Monday.

Coach Jim Harbaugh announced the move a day after his team’s 28-17 win at Dallas. James has sought a greater role in the running game, but he had just two carries for no yards against the Cowboys on Sunday.

Harbaugh, who has an open-door policy with players, wouldn’t talk about whether he met with the frustrated James, saying, "We thought it was in the best interest of our team." The 49ers later re-signed wide receiver Kassim Osgood.

James was a second-round draft pick by the 49ers in 2012 out of Oregon. He also has handled return duties while playing in 15 regular-season games for San Francisco.