The San Diego Chargers released running back LaDainian Tomlinson this afternoon after nine years of service. Tomlinson has been one of the best – if not the best – running back in the NFL during those nine years, though his release doesn’t come as a surprise to most fans. Tomlinson’s numbers have been declining over the last two seasons and he’s been plagued by nagging injuries… not a good sign for a 30 year old running back.

Tomlinson rushed for 12,490 yards in nine seasons and rushed for 138 touchdowns during his career in San Diego. He caught 530 passes and scored 15 touchdowns through the air. A former first-round pick, Tomlinson rushed for only 730 yards in 14 games last season and had a 3.3-yard rushing average. He struggled on first down during the Chargers playoff loss to the New York Jets. During his entire career with the Chargers, he never took them to the Super Bowl.

The writing was on the wall. You might remember the Chargers franchise tagging backup running back Darren Sproles last year. They wouldn’t have given him $6 million if they didn’t think he could be a featured back. Sproles is a small guy like Leon Washington and Maurice Jones-Drew. I’m not sure if the Chargers will sign someone else to run with him, or make Sproles the featured back. One thing is for sure though, they didn’t want to keep paying LT2 for declining numbers.

It’s sad to see such an amazing player get released. He’s a sure Hall of Famer in my opinion.

Where do you think Tomlinson will land? There’s no way he retires or doesn’t get picked up. Maybe the Patriots, Raiders, or Bucs? Post a comment and let me know.