The New Orleans Saints placed running back Travis Etienne Jr. on injured reserve Thursday with a hamstring injury.
Etienne, who signed a four-year, $52-million contract with New Orleans in free agency, will miss at least the next four games.
The 27-year-old suffered the injury in Week 3 during the Saints' 35-27 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. He clutched his leg while on the ground after a 16-yard run in the third quarter and didn't return.
Head coach Kellen Moore wouldn't commit to Etienne returning once he's first eligible to be activated off injured reserve, and it's still unclear how long he'll be sidelined, according to NOF's Mike Triplett.
Alvin Kamara led the Saints in carries with nine behind Etienne in Week 3 and is projected to replace him as the team's top rusher. However, Kendre Miller has played 40 snaps this season, posting 13 carries for 44 yards and a touchdown.
Kamara signed a reworked contract in mid-July to remain in New Orleans for his 10th NFL season. He missed the first game of the year due to a knee injury but has since posted 63 yards on 24 touches.
The Saints (1-2) will face off against the Atlanta Falcons (1-2) on Monday Night Football in Week 4.
