LaDainian Tomlinson created quite a stir among local TV types when he told ESPN: Sunday Conversation that he “might not” be playing football in five years.
So what’s the big deal?
If Tomlinson is still playing for the Chargers … or anyone else … in 2013, it might be a surprise.
LT’s contract runs through 2012, which would be his 12th NFL season. Most running backs are done by then, even the great ones.
All-time NFL rushing leader Emmitt Smith retired after 15 seasons, with the last three being his worst.
Walter Payton, second on the list, retired after 13 years … with his final season not being so good.
No. 3 Barry Sanders played 10 years and retired at the top of his game.
LT is 19th on the career list with 10,543 yards, quite a ways from Smith’s 18,355 yards.
Should Tomlinson not be playing in five years (or not playing effectively), he would only be following the patterns of the best of all time.
So what’s the big deal?
If Tomlinson is still playing for the Chargers … or anyone else … in 2013, it might be a surprise.
LT’s contract runs through 2012, which would be his 12th NFL season. Most running backs are done by then, even the great ones.
All-time NFL rushing leader Emmitt Smith retired after 15 seasons, with the last three being his worst.
Walter Payton, second on the list, retired after 13 years … with his final season not being so good.
No. 3 Barry Sanders played 10 years and retired at the top of his game.
LT is 19th on the career list with 10,543 yards, quite a ways from Smith’s 18,355 yards.
Should Tomlinson not be playing in five years (or not playing effectively), he would only be following the patterns of the best of all time.
