After virtually ignoring running back Deuce McAllister in the season’s first three weeks, the Saints plan to use him extensively Sunday versus the San Francisco 49ers.

Until now, the Saints have been cautious with McAllister, who still is recovering from last season’s torn ACL. He has had only two carries for 10 yards. The Saints believe McAllister’s knee is structurally sound, and they plan to work him into their offense against the Niners.

But it also should be noted that the team has monitored the situation of former Bears running back Cedric Benson, who worked out for New Orleans late this summer.

This past week, all charges against Benson stemming from two alcohol-related arrests last summer were dropped. Those charges contributed to him being released from Chicago and the fact that they’ve been dropped now could contribute to him finding work elsewhere.

He has visited the Saints, and talked with the Broncos and Texans. But now that Benson has been exonerated, his return to the league could be expedited.

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