Rookie Mark Ingram officially was ruled inactive by the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, clearing the way for running back Chris Ivory to see his first action of the season.
Ingram injured his heel during last week's 62-7 rout of the Indianapolis Colts. Saints coach Sean Payton said Friday that the injury would keep Ingram out of Sunday's matchup against the St. Louis Rams.
Ivory (foot) was activated from the physically unable to perform list Saturday. Ivory rushed for 716 yards and five touchdowns last season, averaging 5.2 yards per carry.
Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma also was active after being limited in practice two days earlier with a left knee injury. Tight end David Thomas was sidelined with a concussion.
As expected, Rams quarterback Sam Bradford was inactive for a second consecutive game because of a high left ankle sprain. A.J. Feeley will start in Bradford's place.
Offensive tackle Jason Smith and defensive tackle Darell Scott also are out with concussions for St. Louis.
Visit www.nfl.com/inactives to see inactive players in every Sunday game.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.