Saints release running back Gillislee, will activate Ingram

The New Orleans Saints released running back Mike Gillislee on Saturday to open up a 53-man roster spot for veteran Mark Ingram, according to published reports.

The New Orleans Saints released running back Mike Gillislee on Saturday to open up a 53-man roster spot for veteran Mark Ingram, according to published reports.

Ingram missed the first four games due to a violation of the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing drugs. He will make his season debut in Monday night's game against the Washington Redskins.

Gillislee averaged just 2.7 yards per carry with the Saints, as he gained 43 yards on 16 carries. New Orleans signed him after he was cut by the New England Patriots in early September.

Ingram established career highs of 1,124 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns last season while topping 1,000 yards for the second straight season.

The two-time Pro Bowler said he struggled with having to watch his teammates play on television on game days.

"They weren't cool, but when we were winning games, it made it better," Ingram told reporters of his Sundays. "I was excited to see us winning games and playing well. Just being able to get back with these guys and be with the team, of course, is something I looked forward to every day."

Meanwhile, Saints wideout Ted Ginn Jr. has been ruled out against Washington with a knee injury.

Ginn, 33, has 12 grabs for 135 yards and two scores this season, all second among Saints wideouts behind Michael Thomas. His absence will open up opportunities for Cameron Meredith and third-round rookie Tre'Quan Smith.

The Saints have a Week 6 bye, so Ginn will have two weeks to get healthy before New Orleans visits Baltimore.