New Orleans Saints running back Ladell Betts has been placed on injured reserve, WWL-TV in New Orleans reports.

To replace Betts, the Saints have signed linebacker Kawika Mitchell.

In eight games, including one start, in his first season with the Saints, Betts has 45 carries for 150 yards and 2 touchdowns, with 23 receptions for 141 yards out of the backfield. Betts has missed the last two weeks with a neck injury.

Mitchell opened the 2010 season on the Buffalo Bills' injured reserve list. Mitchell had injured his foot during a practice on September 4, but negotiated an injury settlement and was released in early October.

In a 96-game career with the Kansas City Chiefs (2003-06), New York Giants (2007), and Bills (2008-09), Mitchell has 487 tackles, 12 quarterback sacks, and six interceptions.