Saints Put Betts On IR, Sign Kawika Mitchell

Kawika Mitchell, a 6-1, 253-pound 8 year veteran, signed a contract today with the New Orleans Saints. Mitchell began this season on the Buffalo Bills' injured reserve list with a foot injury. But he was released with an injury settlement, allowing him to sign with the Saints. In addition to the Bills, he has spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, as well as the New York Giants where he won a Super Bowl. He's started at both middle and weakside linebacker in his career, and started every game for the 2007 SB champion Giants, recording 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception returned for a touchdown.

Mitchell was able to sign the roster spot freed up by Ladell Betts placement on injured reserve. Betts, who signed with the team prior to week 3, rushed for 150 yards and 2 touchdowns this season, and caught 23 balls for 141 yards. He suffered a concussion and neck injury in Week 11 versus the Seahawks. Saints RB Pierre Thomas fully participated in practice today, as did Julius Jones, giving the Saints 4 RBs that could potentially suit up on Sunday against the Rams. Rookie Chris Ivory along with Reggie Bush are expected to get the bulk of the snaps at RB this Sunday.