Brandon Saine came to Green Bay before the 2011 season as an undrafted free agent and contributed in a few games that season as a third-down running back and special teams player. Saine's receiving ability out of the backfield is one of his strengths, and he recorded 18 carries for 69 yards and 10 receptions also for 69 yards in his rookie season. Unfortunately, Saine's sophomore campaign was cut short by a torn ACL suffered in the Week 6 game against Houston.
2012 Season
Saine missed most of training camp with a hamstring injury, but returned shortly before the regular season began. He put up no statistics in 2012, as he was used exclusively as a special teams player through six games. The knee injury placed him on injured reserve almost immediately after the game against the Texans.
2012 Replacements
Saine might have been a late-season option for the Packers at running back had he stayed healthy; instead, the team signed DuJuan Harris off the street and he appears to be one of the top options to start at the position in 2013. John Kuhn played the role of the third-down back in passing situations for most of 2012, even before Saine's injury.
Recovery Outlook
ACL injuries have slow recoveries, and there is little to no news available on how Saine is progressing. Based on similar injuries, Saine may have a chance to practice in training camp, but it is entirely possible that he may miss camp and start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list, which could throw his entire 2013 season into question.
2013 Roster Status
Harris and Alex Green appear to be the only running backs who are locks to make the roster in 2013. James Starks' injury history may finally force him out of Green Bay, and the Packers have shown little indication that they are interested in bringing Cedric Benson back. The team does seem likely to target a running back in the draft, however, and will most likely look to share carries among all the backs that are on the team. However, the team's minimal investment in Saine and his injury make his chances of making the opening week roster seem slim.
Other injury status reports: OLB Nick Perry | ILB Desmond Bishop | ILB D.J. Smith | RT Bryan Bulaga | LT Derek Sherrod | TE Andrew Quarless
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