NEW ORLEANS — Deuce McAllister will lead the Saints into the playoffs, at least during introductions.
The Saints re-signed their popular all-time rusher Friday with the intention of making him an honorary captain, but McAllister won’t play in today’s divisional-round playoff game against the Cardinals, coach Sean Payton said.
Payton said the Saints first discussed the idea of making McAllister an unofficial guest captain a couple of weeks ago. When reserve defensive tackle Rodney Leisle hurt his knee and was unable to practice this week, Payton and general manager Mickey Loomis decided to make McAllister an official part of the team.
“We felt like it was appropriate for the divisional game,” Payton said. “He’s so well thought of. He’s so well respected by the players.”
McAllister has been out of football for about a year but participated in a closed practice at the club’s suburban training headquarters.
“I’m speechless,” McAllister said. “I don’t know that there are words to describe this feeling. I do know that we have some unfinished business that we started a few years ago, and we want to finish the deal.”
McAllister has rushed for 6,096 career yards. His 55 total touchdowns and 49 rushing TDs also are club records. However, he tore anterior cruciate ligaments in both knees, first his right one in 2005 and then the left in 2007. He’s had minor cleanup operations since and played hurt throughout the 2008 season, having fluid drained from his left knee on a routine basis.
Even if the Saints advance in the playoffs, there’s little chance of Mc- Allister getting on the field in later rounds.
Barber probable for Sunday’s game
IRVING, Texas — Dallas running back Marion Barber (knee) went through an entire practice and is listed as probable to play Sunday against the Vikings.
Vikings’ Kennedy, Tahi ailing
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Vikings defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy (thumb) and fullback Naufahu Tahi (back) are listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against Dallas.
No word on Cable’s future
ALAMEDA, Calif. — Tom Cable apparently will remain coach of the Raiders at least until next week. Cable’s job is in question after he went 5-11 in his first full season as coach.
Tice to coach Bears’ offensive line
LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Bears signed former Vikings head coach Mike Tice to be the team’s offensive line coach.
