Definition
Deuce McAllister is a former professional American football player who played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL), primarily for the New Orleans Saints.
Overview
Deuce McAllister played in the NFL from 2001 to 2009, spending the majority of his career with the New Orleans Saints after being selected by the team in the first round (23rd overall) of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), where he was a standout running back and earned All-American honors. Known for his powerful running style and durability, McAllister became one of the Saints' most prolific rushers during his tenure.
During his NFL career, McAllister was a two-time Pro Bowl selection (2003, 2004) and led the NFC in rushing touchdowns in 2003 with 15. He ranks among the top rushers in Saints franchise history. Injuries, particularly to his knees, affected the latter part of his career, ultimately leading to his retirement after brief stints with the Cleveland Browns and a return to the Saints in 2009.
Etymology/Origin
The nickname "Deuce" is commonly used in American sports culture and may originate from the slang term for "two," possibly referencing a jersey number, birth order, or personal identity. In McAllister’s case, the nickname was used from an early age and became his widely recognized moniker in both college and professional football.
Characteristics
- Position: Running back
- NFL Teams: New Orleans Saints (2001–2008, 2009), Cleveland Browns (2009)*
- Draft: 1st round, 23rd overall pick in 2001
- College: University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
- Pro Bowl: 2003, 2004
- Career rushing yards: 6,096
- Career rushing touchdowns: 49
- Noted for: Physical, downhill running style; leadership; franchise icon for the Saints during the 2000s
*Note: McAllister was briefly with the Browns in 2009 but was released before playing a regular-season game; he later returned to the Saints that same year.
Related Topics
- New Orleans Saints history
- Ole Miss Rebels football
- NFL Draft (2001)
- Running backs in the NFL
- Saints Hall of Fame – McAllister was inducted in 2012