BUFFALO, N.Y. — Veteran running back Dominic Rhodes has been released by the Buffalo Bills, who are shaking up their offense a day after firing coordinator Turk Schonert.

Rhodes' agent, Todd France, confirmed his client had been released in a text message sent to The Associated Press on Saturday, hours before NFL teams are required to make their final cuts.

The Bills were not immediately available for comment.

The move was considered a surprise as Rhodes was expected to serve as a primary backup to Fred Jackson to open the season while starter Marshawn Lynch serves an NFL-imposed three-game suspension.

The Bills offense is in flux with quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt taking over play-calling duties following Schonert's dismissal.