The Saints have placed running back Pierre Thomas and defensive end Akiem Hicks on IR, according to Mike Triplett of ESPN.com (link). Taking their spots on the 53-man roster will be wide receiver Brandon Coleman and linebacker Jerry Franklin (link). Coleman and Franklin were bumped up in order to secure them under contract, according to coach Sean Payton. They are not expected to play this weekend.
Despite playing in ten games this season, Thomas has only amassed 45 carries this season, which will be the lowest for his career. He has been pushed onto the backburner as former first-round pick Mark Ingram has seen his workload and productivity increase. Ingram, who has also struggled with injuries, has been given over 200 carries during his breakout year.
Hicks was a third-round pick in 2012, and played 14 games for the Saints this year. His productivity was marginal, getting to the quarterback for only two sacks this year, but did contribute 4.5 sacks in 2013.