The New Orleans Saints have released RB Deuce McAllister.

McAllister turned 30 in December and is due $5.3 million this season. He had four years remaining on his contract but suffered major knee injuries in two of the last three years.

“Decisions like this are always very difficult ones to make,” Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis said in a statement before the press conference. “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. His records and accomplishments on the field speak for themselves about the type of player he was in a Saints uniform. He truly ranks as one of the greatest players in our club’s history, and we are very respectful of everything he has meant to the Saints and our community.”

The Saints drafted the Deuce in the first-round in 2001.