Deuce McAllister
Dulymus Jenod "Deuce" McAllister (born December 27, 1978) is an American former professional football player who was a running back for eight seasons with the New Orleans Saints. He played college football for the Ole Miss Rebels and was selected by the Saints in the first round of the 2001 NFL draft.
- position
- Running Back
- pro_bowl_selections
- 2
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
McAllister became the starting running back after Ricky Williams was traded in 2002. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in three straight seasons, a first in Saints' history. In 2003, he posted a career-high 1,641 rushing yards and set a club record with 2,157 total yards. As of 2005, he held team records for rushing yards (5,586), touchdowns (44), and 100-yard games (22). He suffered torn ACLs in both his right knee (2005) and left knee (2007) but returned to play. In January 2007, he rushed for 143 yards and a touchdown in the Saints' first-ever NFC Championship Game appearance.
In Their Own Story
On December 9, 2001, McAllister threw a touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons. During his 2002 debut as a starter, he led the conference with 1,388 rushing yards and scored 16 touchdowns. In November 2008, he set the all-time rushing touchdown record for the Saints with a score against the Green Bay Packers. Although released in February 2009 due to salary cap issues, he was re-signed on January 15, 2010, to serve as an honorary captain before the divisional round playoff game. He retired after that season but was on the roster when the Saints won Super Bowl XLIV.
Reader's Guide
McAllister's NFL career spanned eight seasons with the New Orleans Saints following his selection in the first round (23rd overall) of the 2001 draft. He played college football at Ole Miss, where he set records for carries, yards, and touchdowns. His professional highs included a 2003 season where he finished second in the NFC in rushing. After two ACL injuries, he returned briefly in 2008 before being released in early 2009. He joined the Saints again in January 2010 as an honorary captain for the playoffs and retired shortly after the team's Super Bowl victory.
Did You Know?
- McAllister is the only player in Ole Miss history to record three seasons with at least 1,000 all-purpose yards.
- He threw a touchdown pass on December 9, 2001, against the Atlanta Falcons.
- In January 2007, he helped the Saints earn their first-ever NFC Championship Game appearance in the team's 40-year history.
- After being released in 2009 due to salary cap problems, he was re-signed just one day before a playoff game to serve as an honorary captain.
- He owns and operates the Ole Saint restaurant and sports bar chain with locations in New Orleans' French Quarter and Biloxi, Mississippi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Deuce McAllister?
He was a standout running back for the Saints from 2004 to 2013 who wore jersey number 35. Selected in the second round out of North Carolina, he became the engine of Sean Payton's offense.
What are his major career honors?
McAllister was selected to two Pro Bowls and earned one First-team All-Pro designation during his time with New Orleans. His legacy is further cemented by his induction into the Saints Hall of Fame.
How did he contribute to the Super Bowl win?
He formed a legendary rushing tandem with quarterback Drew Brees that powered the team's resurgence. McAllister was instrumental in leading the offense during their historic victory in Super Bowl XLIV.
Why is he considered a Saints legend?
Fans revere him for his resilience and leadership during the franchise's rebuilding phase after Hurricane Katrina. He carried the emotional weight of the city while delivering consistent performance on the field.
When did his playing career conclude?
His tenure in the NFL spanned ten seasons before he retired following the 2013 season. Although he is no longer active, he remains a highly respected figure within the organization.
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