The New Orleans Saints lost starting running back Mark Ingram Wednesday, as the team placed Ingram on injured reserve with a shoulder injury.
The Saints have other running backs on the roster, but none that fit the role Ingram played. He was the team's go-to running back, with C.J. Spiller contributing mostly on passing downs when healthy. Also on the roster are Tim Hightower and Marcus Murphy. Hightower has seen notable action in just one game this season and it's tough to trust him. Murphy hasn't received a single carry this season. New Orleans called up Austin Johnson from the practice squad, but he's more of a fullback than a running back.
With Ingram out and the team missing a true power back, the Saints might add someone to replace Ingram on the active roster. Spiller will likely become the team's starter, but adding a bigger back could be a smart move. With that in mind, here are six players the Saints could sign to replace Mark Ingram.
6. Ray Rice
Every time an NFL team has needed an RB this season, Rice's name pops up. I'm not a big fan of his, because I think he's washed up as a running back. In his last season with the Ravens, he put up a meager 3.1 yards per carry. He's a 28-year-old RB who hasn't played recently, so there is cause for concern. However, don't be surprised if his name comes up, especially among fans.
5. Montee Ball
Ball didn't make the Broncos' roster, but still has some talent. He has limited upside in the passing game, but offers value as a workhorse type back. He's worth brining in for a workout, much like the Packers recently did, even if the Saints don't sign him.
4. Bryce Brown
Brown is quick, shifty and worth a look. He has been signed and cut a few times this season, most recently by the Seattle Seahawks. He has some potential, and is young enough to merit consideration beyond this season. That last part is key, as the Saints likely would prefer to add someone with more experience.
3. Christine Michael
Michael is currently on the Washington Redskins' practice squad. He landed there after the Cowboys cut him following a trade from the Seahawks. Michael hasn't reached his potential, but he could replace Ingram as the team's power back. He'd make a decent partner for Spiller.
2. Edwin Baker
Baker hasn't played in the NFL since 2014, but his last team was the Saints. He was on their practice squad last year, before getting the call to the active roster when injuries hit the team hard at RB. That could be the case again this season. It depends on if Baker is in playing shape, but his knowledge of the offense could help him.
1. Pierre Thomas
Thomas briefly signed with the San Francisco 49ers this season, but the team cut him not long after adding him. He's more of a third down back, but his knowledge of the offense is critical. He might not be a feature back for the Saints, but he'd be an upgrade over some of the options currently on the roster.
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