NEW ORLEANS — Deuce McAllister says he's retiring from pro football.

McAllister hasn't played since 2008 but briefly rejoined the New Orleans Saints last week to serve as an honorary captain for the club's playoff win over Arizona on Saturday.

McAllister confirmed his plans in a text message to The Associated Press. The Clarion-Ledger in Jackson, Miss., first reported the former Ole Miss star's plans on Tuesday afternoon.

The 31-year-old McAllister was drafted in the first round by New Orleans in 2001. He is the Saints' all-time leading rusher with 6,096 yards. His 55 total touchdowns and 49 rushing TDs also are club records. However, he needed reconstructive surgery to repair serious knee injuries in 2005 and 2007.