Tennessee Titans cut Chris Johnson

The Tennessee Titans are parting ways with Chris Johnson.

The Titans announced Friday that they have released the star running back, whose six-year roller-coaster career included incredible highs (he eclipsed the 2,000-yard rushing mark in 2009) and frustrating lows.

Johnson, who was scheduled to make $8 million this season, is coming off a year in which he averaged a career-low 3.9 yards per carry in rushing for 1,077 yards. He underwent knee surgery in January for torn meniscus.

By releasing Johnson, the Titans saved $6 million in salary-cap space.

New Tennessee Coach Ken Whisenhunt was facing a pivotal decision after the Titans paid Johnson $10 million last season.

The Titans released a statement Friday on Johnson’s release: “As an organization, we want to thank Chris for his contributions to the Titans. Chris produced many memorable moments, broke franchise records and was durable over his six year career with our team.

“We have had an open dialogue with Chris’ agent, Joel Segal, over the last few weeks, and we appreciate the patience and professionalism they have shown throughout this process. We made an effort to trade Chris but were unable to do so.

“We wish Chris the best and thank him for the six seasons he spent with us.”