NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Popular running back Deuce McAllister was released by the New Orleans Saints on Tuesday in a move that reduced the team’s payroll as free agency approaches.McAllister, the Saints’ all-time leading rusher with 6,069 yards, was due more than $7 million next season. The Saints said they granted McAllister his release so he could seek offers from other teams.He played a limited role in the Saints’ offense this past season with 107 carries for 418 yards. McAllister has had reconstructive surgery on both knees.”Decisions like this are always very difficult ones to make,” Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said. “Deuce has epitomized hard work, leadership and productivity throughout his career and has been a source of great pride for all of us associated with the team.”A first-round draft choice in 2001, McAllister also holds team records for touchdowns (55) and rushing touchdowns (49) and is the only Saints player to rush for 1,000 yards in a season four times.He played in the Pro Bowl in 2002 and 2003. His last 1,000-yard season was 2006, when the Saints advanced to the NFC championship game. That also was the season before McAllister’s second anterior cruciate ligament tear.McAllister’s first ACL tear occurred in his right knee early in the 2005 season and the second in his left knee in the third game of the 2007 season.What they’re saying about Deuce:Saints owner Tom Benson: “Deuce has meant so much to our organization since we selected him in the first round of the 2001 draft. He has represented our club with dignity and class, and obviously been a great player – one of our best all-time. He’s earned the respect of everyone in our community for not only what he’s done on the field, but for what he’s done for those who are less fortunate. Saints fans should celebrate his career and his accomplishments, and what we wish for him now is continued success.” Saints coach Sean Payton: “Deuce played a major role with this team in our drive to the NFC Championship game. He has suffered setbacks with his injuries and that has been unfortunate for him and for us as he has played a critical role in our offense. Today, we start the process of trying to replace him and find that player that embodies what Deuce McAllister has meant to this team.”