Deuce McAllister says thanks to New Orleans Saints fans

by David "Satch" Kelly on Feb 17, 2009 2:06 PM CST

He had the sunglasses in his jacket pocket, just in case.

Because Deuce McAllister couldn't let anyone see him cry.

As he spoke, he didn't shed a tear. But he probably wanted to.

McAllister sat before members of the local media today to talk about how he had been released by the New Orleans Saints.

At no point did McAllister sound angry. He didn't come across as being upset with what happened. Pro football is a business and he knows it.

He did, however, come across as being humbled. Humbled by the adoration of Saints fans.

The guy can't go anywhere in New Orleans without being noticed. He can't go to a Hornets game without getting the best ovation of anyone in the building. He can't wave to fans without being serenaded with "Deeeuuuuucccceee."

"I just want to say thanks," he said, with a hint of a smile. "There is no animosity with me. We had good talks. In the end, it just didn't work out.

"When you look at it, the life expectancy of a running back is 3.5. I've got eight. I'm thankful."

He said he still wants to play. He admits that he's not 100 percent healthy. He and his agent will look for a team to play for.

Coach Sean Payton talked about this being a difficult situation -- "He's arguably the best player in this franchise's history. That's what makes today so hard."

General Manager Mickey Loomis said he can't describe how much McAllister has meant to the Saints.

Rita Benson LeBlanc was here, and after McAllister spoke, gave him a big hug.

He waved as he left the room. We don't know what he did when the door closed behind him. But it's likely he put on his sunglases.

What a classy guy. Now I'd love to know what he really thinks. DAMN! Why do I feel like a member of my family has unexpectedly passed away? I thought I was prepared for this. We'll ALWAYS love you Deuce!

This FanPost was written by a reader and member of Canal Street Chronicles. It does not necessarily reflect the views of CSC and its staff or editors.

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Video Conference

Here is the link via NFL.com of the presee release

"We couldn't do diddly poo"

by Grumps on Feb 17, 2009 2:24 PM CST reply actions

http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80ec89bd

"We couldn't do diddly poo"

by Grumps on Feb 17, 2009 2:24 PM CST reply actions 1 recs

nice

Think about it: How many times did you go “Deuce, GAAA!” Almost never. The guy knew what he was doing and he executed. Very few mental mistakes, very rarely failed to deliver. He’d carry the whole team on his back if he could. We were blessed to have him play for the Saints, that’s the bottom line. Thanks, Deuce.

So many provocations, so little time.

by stujo4 on Feb 17, 2009 2:31 PM CST up reply actions

Everybody goes about how much...

…Saints are Drew’s or Reggie’s team.

So why the hell do I fell like an orphan today?

Thought not having a girlfriend would keep me from heartbreaks. Guess I was wrong….

SB minus just a D above average.

by FrenchFreak on Feb 17, 2009 3:26 PM CST reply actions

What a Class guy

I’m putting my black “Deuce” jersey in a frame, hanging it on a wall, and i don’t care what my wife says……………Thanks Deuce

by metryman on Feb 17, 2009 4:08 PM CST reply actions

I was actually thinking of doing the same thing of my white McAllister jersey that i wore to the Saints-Chiefs game this past November. There is a wide open spot above my bar. Considering i will be drowning some sorrows. Seems a perfect choice to me.

"We couldn't do diddly poo"

by Grumps on Feb 17, 2009 4:15 PM CST reply actions