Lightning Strikes with Jeff Williams

Jeff Williams breaks down the Chargers' recent action in free agency as they sign a veteran corner, shop their backup QB, and watch their former all-pro running back sign with the New York Jets.

LT SIGNS WITH THE JETS

LaDainian Tomlinson made it official Sunday, signing a two-year, $5.1 million contract with the Jets. LT will be backup to Jets RB Shonn Greene and will likely serve as the primary 3rd-down back. So why did he choose the Jets over the Vikings? I think there are two reasons. First, I think the Brett Favre factor may have worked against the Vikings. Favre may be back this season, but what is the likelihood that he will be playing for two (or more seasons)? Probably not very good, and LT is on record saying he thinks he has a few more years in him. But I think the most important factor in LT's decision is the offensive mindset of Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. The Jets believe in running the ball, and they have the offensive line to do it. If you were a running back with something to prove, there would be no better situation to find yourself in then with the Jets. LT, I'm still sad to see you go, but I think you made the right call.

WHITEHURST DEAL IMMINENT?

Reports have Chargers 3rd string quarterback Charlie Whitehurst close to an agreement with either the Seattle Seahawks or the Arizona Cardinals. It will be very interesting to see how this deal will go down. As was previously reported on Bolthype, Whitehurst's 3rd round tender guarantees the Chargers 3rd round compensation if Whitehurst signs with another team (if the Chargers decide not to match). That's where it gets really interesting, since the Seahawks don't have a 3rd round pick in this year's draft. Rumor has it the Chargers may try to swing a deal to move up in the first round as compensation for Whitehurst if he signs with Seattle. All this for Charlie Whitehurst? I would have been excited to just get a 3rd rounder! The 3rd string QB behind Rivers and Volek may be one of the most irrelevant positions in the NFL.

CHARGERS SIGN STRICKLAND

Helping to fill a hole created by the departure of Antonio Cromartie, the Chargers signed former Jets cornerback Donald Strickland. Strickland will likely be a contender for the nickle spot on the Chargers D, which could prove to be one of the more intriguing position battles (with Steven Gregory and a possible rookie CB) in training camp this year.

FREE AGENCY

Not surprising, yet still disappointing... No, I'm not talking about Rex Ryan's weight-loss surgery (that wasn't a joke- google it). I'm talking about the Chargers consistent lack of free agent activity. If there is significant free agent news involving the Chargers, you can be sure it will involve a former Chargers player signing with someone else. With restricted free agents now being eyed by teams with big needs and open pockets, how soon will it be before the likes of a Merriman or Jackson are courted by opposing teams? Can this team afford to lose any of it's top restricted free agent talent? If so, who are you most willing to let go? Sound off and let us know what you think!

Three And Out: March 11, 2010

Charger players, both former and current, are drawing interest around the league; the Vikings are making a strong play for LT, and a couple teams in the NFC West are inquiring about Charlie Whitehurst. Also, it appears the Chargers have their eyes on multiple California Golden Bear prospects.

TOMLINSON VISITS WITH THE VIKINGS, COULD ALSO MEET WITH THE JETS

The Minnesota Vikings began their courtship of Ladainian Tomlinson in earnest yesterday, as team officials hosted the former San Diego Charger for dinner Wednesday night with Tomlinson later sharing that the free agency process is an exciting, yet unfamiliar process.

"It's like recruiting all over again, like going from high school to college," says Tomlinson. "You just kind of have to kind of get a feel and see where you fit in at and see how it goes."

In pursuing LT, the Vikings have made it clear to him that his role on the team would be as a back-up to Adrian Peterson, and as a third-down player. Quite the fundamental shift in what Tomlinson has been known to do throughout his career, it is nonetheless a role he is willing to embrace.

"I don't [have a problem with it]," Tomlinson says. "I know I can catch the ball really well out of the backfield, can run routes and that's something that I've always looked for as I got older in my career. Being able to fall back on that. Not having to carry the ball as much. I think that's what was lost in San Diego because I was the only guy that could really carry the ball 20 times. So my third-down role was reduced. So now I'm looking for that. It's something I can do and I can fit in well."

LT's agent Tom Condon seems to be building leverage against Minnesota as he scheduled a trip next to the New York Jets, who have also expressed interest in the Hall of Fame back. But if Minnesota is serious about getting a deal done with Tomlinson, he could sign today.

"My agent is definitely here in town," says Tomlinson.

SOURCE: Star Tribune


CHARGERS BACKUP QB CHARLIE WHITEHURST DRAWING LEAGUE INTEREST

When the Chargers tendered restricted free agent Charlie Whitehurst with only a third rounder, it became apparent that the team was willing to let the veteran backup QB leave in hopes of securing a solid third round pick in compensation.

Thus far, Whitehurst was met with the Arizona Cardinals and is visiting with the Seattle Seahawks today. As the Seahawks don't have a third round pick this year, word is there are trying to secure one via trade.

There are a number of veteran quarterbacks currently on the market with much more starting experience than Whitehurst, but it is believed that Whitehurst carried a high grade as a prospect when he entered the NFL, and personnel people around the league are still intrigued by his potential.

Should the Chargers be able to secure a third round pick this year, it would give them more flexibility in a draft which is shaping up to be a pivotal one as the Chargers try to ensure they can still compete for a Super Bowl even after losing so many big-time players.

SOURCE: NFL.com


CHARGERS ATTEND CAL's PRO DAY

The Chargers attended Cal's pro day yesterday, much as they would any other school workout. But while most are correctly assuming they have their eye on Jahvid Best, don't discount the possibility that they also have real interest in defensive end/tackle Tyson Alualu.

Alualu was second-team All Pac 10 last year. At 6'3" 295lbs he has the prototypical frame for the 5 technique spot opposite Luis Castillo. While obviously not a nose tackle, Tyson could still bring value to the team with his versatility and ability to make big plays. The Chargers defensive line lacks playmakers, but Tyson's athleticism and power could change that.

Tyson Alualu Highlights

LaDainian Tomlinson: Mr. Charger

LaDainian Tomlinson came into San Diego in 2001 following a time of great drama and turmoil for the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers had finished the 2000 season with just one win, an embarrassment even for a team that had experienced many more downs than ups over the course of their then 40-years in existence. Ryan Leaf, the biggest bust in NFL history at that time, had been released, and the Chargers had just traded the number-one pick (and the right to draft QB Michael Vick) for a package of picks and players, all in the hope that they could get the guy they thought they could build a franchise around at pick number-five. That player was LT.

Tomlinson’s early years with the Chargers earned him more individual accolades than team success. In his first three years in the league the Chargers finished last in their division. Still, LT quickly established himself as the one consistent threat on the Chargers offense. Even on those bad Chargers teams from 2001 to 2003, LT became the first running back to score 10 or more touchdowns in his first three years, earned a spot on both Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams, and gave San Diegans hope for the future.

In 2004 the fortunes for the Chargers began to change, and LT kept getting better. He led the league that year with 17 rushing TD’s, and the Chargers made the playoffs for the first time since 1995. They could not make it out of the Wild Card round, losing to the Jets by a field goal (insert shudder here), but the performance of this up-and-coming group, with their star running back leading the way, foretold of a period of success that had not been seen since the AFL Championship years of the early 60’s.

The year 2006 was a career milestone for Tomlinson and solidified his spot in the Hall of Fame down the road. Chargers began the first of four consecutive years in the playoffs, and in one of the greatest individual seasons for a running back in NFL history, LT led the league with 1815 yards rushing, scored an NFL single-season record of 28 rushing touchdowns and 31 total touchdowns, set a new NFL record for points scored in a season with 186, and led his team to a 14-2 record while winning the league MVP and the Walter Payton Man of the Year award. His record breaking touchdown against the Denver Broncos (coming in the 13th game of the 2006 season) is a moment that still gives chills to any Chargers fan.

Tomlinson ends his Chargers career with 12490 yards rushing and 16445 total yards from scrimmage, and with 138 rushing touchdowns and 153 total touchdowns (with 7 more passing touchdowns and 146.9 passer rating). His and the team's biggest regret during the last nine years is the lack of Super Bowl success, and it truly is a shame that this team could not pull it all together during Tomlinson's time in San Diego.

From humble beginnings playing Pop Warner football in Waco, TX, where his mother Loreane sacrificed and saved to fulfill her young son's dream of playing football, through his days playing college football for TCU, LT always had to fight for a starting job as running back. It seems there was always someone a little bigger or a little better connected standing in his way, forcing Tomlinson to fight even harder for playing time. He eventually earned the starting job at TCU, and went on to lead the NCAA with 2158 rushing yards in his senior year and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy.

With the Chargers release of Tomlinson on Monday, he again finds himself fighting for a job. Most "experts" believe he has lost a step, and it's hard to argue with that. I would add that while he may have lost a step, LT at 80% is still better then most of the running backs in the league. It's hard to predict where the future will take him, but for a guy as competitive as LT, I think he looks forward to the challenge of fighting for a spot with another team.

Can LaDainian Tomlinson start for a team in the NFL in 2010? I think he can, and I look forward to cheering him on...except for if and when he plays against the Chargers. Wow, how weird is that going to look?

--

LaDainian Tomlinson will speak about the events of this week in a press conference later today.

San Diego Chargers Release Ladainian Tomlinson

Future Hall of Fame running back Ladainian Tomlinson was released today after nine incredible seasons with the San Diego Chargers

Team President Dean Spanos on LT:

“This is a part of the business that I hate, and it’s particularly hard when you’re dealing with someone I consider a friend. Change involving great players is never easy. I respect LT as much or more than any player I’ve ever known. And no one appreciates his contributions to this organization more than I do. That is why this is such a difficult announcement for me to make.

“It has been a privilege to work with him and witness his entire career. I’m proud of him and grateful to him for the way he has carried himself both on and off the field.

“No matter where he chooses to continue his career, in my mind LT will always be a San Diego Charger. His legacy as one of the greatest running backs the game has ever seen will be as a Charger.”

SOURCE: Chargers.com

Tomlinson Unhappy With Role in '09 But Not Ready To Retire Yet

In an interesting interview with San Diego radio station Double X 1090 AM, Ladainian Tomlinson answered a number of questions, including his perceived role on the Chargers, whether or not he has played his last game in San Diego, and if retirement is in his near future.

In the interview, a dejected Tomlinson came clean on a variety of issues, not the least of which was his unhappiness with his role on the Chargers of 2009. LT clearly stated that every year's team is different, and while he had a career low in production, he wasn't happy with the number of opportunities afforded to him this past season.

"I think I did the things that I could do with this year's team," explains Tomlinson. "Every year, whatever the team needed me to do I gave my heart and soul to it. Whether it was giving me the ball 350 times and another 50-70 times catching the ball, I played my heart and soul for this team. But this year, I wasn't asked to do that type of stuff. My numbers were as low as they've ever been. So I felt that I did what I could, with this team."

So was Tomlinson used correctly this year? Was he happy with his role?

"No I wasn't," Tomlinson says. "I wasn't happy. No one is going to be happy with the least touches of their career. I don't know any running back that would be happy with that. Absolutely not, I wasn't happy with not touching the ball as much as I thought I would."

Given the direction of the Chargers offense, will Tomlinson be back in a Chargers uniform next year?

"I can't really answer that right now to be fair. I need to give myself a little more time before I could really say," says Tomlinson.

Is retirement something LT is considering at this time?

"No, I'm not ready to retire," states Tomlinson. "I still love the game. I have a lot of passion for the game, and I feel like I can contribute to it. So no, not at this time. I'm still chasing the dream of winning a championship. That's the number-one goal. You put your body through a lot to play this game, but you want to win a championship at some point and be able to know what it feels like to hold that trophy."

And as far as restructured contracts go, would LT consider taking less money?

"Nope," Tomlinson flatly replies.

SOURCE: Double X Sports Radio

YOUR TAKE

Does hearing this interview change your perspective on the matter? Do you feel strongly that the Chargers keep or let go of Tomlinson? I'd really be interested in hearing your take, join the conversation in the comments section below.

Three And Out: January 10, 2010

The San Diego Chargers and New York Jets are set to face eachother next week in So Cal, and Ladainian Tomlinson's stolen MVP ring is recovered down in Texas. Also, the Electric Glide.


JETS HEADING TO SAN DIEGO IN A REMATCH OF 2004-2005 PLAYOFF GAME

With the Jets emerging victorious against the Cincinatti Bengals, the Chargers now have an opponent for which they can game-plan for. The Chargers match-up favorably against the Jets, as New York's strengths do not pose direct threats to what the Chargers will look to do. As we've seen, the only way teams have been able to beat the Chargers is to score 30+ points against them and the Jets simply lack the firepower to match up offensively with the Bolts.

With that said, we are in the playoffs and the last time the Jets came here for a playoff game, they left many brokenhearted Charger fans in their wake (Pennington leads winning drive after Chargers miss field goal)

TOMLINSON'S MVP RING STOLEN, THEN RECOVERED

Dallas Police have recovered Ladainain Tomlinson's stolen TCU MVP ring this week while investigating a shooting at a Pleasant Grove apartment complex. From the article:

"Somebody shot through a wall of the apartment and we got the call," says Johnson. "After we made a couple of arrests in the apartment, we discovered the ring in the kitchen. We asked if anybody in the house played for TCU and it was fairly obvious that this was a stolen item."

The Chargers head of security has been notified and the ring sits in the DPD's found property department. The ring was reportedly given to Tomlinson after winning the Dan Rogers Award as the team's MVP while at TCU in 1999.

Thanks Wally for the heads up!

SOURCE: PigskinTexas.com

LT's NEW DANCE VIDEO: ELECTRIC GLIDE

Charger fan "Raiders Suck" sent this over earlier, and I almost hit my head on the ground from falling over laughing so hard. Looks like a viral Nike commercial - love it...

Norv Turner In Danger Of Losing His Locker Room?

San Diego Chargers Head Coach Norv Turner made arguably his most questionable playcall this past Monday against division rival Denver Broncos.


In the first quarter on third and goal, the Chargers lined up in a goalline formation with their heavy personnel package, determined to run the ball for a touchdown. The Broncos, caught in a mismatch defensively, called a timeout. Norv Turner, perhaps losing faith in his running back Ladainian Tomlinson, or perhaps losing faith in the ability of the 6 offensive linemen and 3 tight ends lined up to block, decided to take advantage of Denver's timeout. Turner decided to switch the play up, going to a three wide, single back set with Darren Sproles substituting for LT. Turner hoped to lull the Broncos defense into giving up an easy touchdown through the middle, but Denver had seen this play many times before.

A visibly annoyed Tomlinson was seen on the sideline, tossing his helmet in desperate frustration as he watched helplessly from the sidelines. Nick Hardwick and Antonio Gates offered their condolences, but it was clear to everyone that Tomlinson should have been on the field. Norv Turner made a bad call, and he cost his team 7 points.

LORENZO NEAL PUTS NORV TURNER ON BLAST

Former San Diego Charger Lorenzo Neal, one of Ladainian Tomlinson's best friends, came on to local radio station XX Sports Radio with host Darren Smith after the Chargers' heartbreaking loss. Lorenzo Neal is one of the most straight-shooting guys in or around the NFL, and he held nothing back in what has quickly become an almost legendary rant:

"Let’s start with 21 (LaDainian Tomlinson). He’s got to be frustrated. I’m looking at that game watching it, it’s first and goal on the seven yard line, he picks up two yards. The next play he picks up three yards. Its 3rd down and goal from the two. You have a guy who has arguably the best nose for the end zone in the history of the game; one year he’s had over 29 touchdowns. From one to two yards, I think if you look at his rating, he must be in the 90 percentile. No disrespect to Darren Sproles. Darren Sproles is arguably one of the best return men in the league. The guy is a phenomenal athlete, he’s got great feet, quick, tough guy, has shown what he can do in this league. Let’s not take anything away from Darren. I love him like a brother, great guy, but if you’re riding in the car with somebody, if you’re willing to ride with them, you gotta be willing to die with them. If you’re gonna ride with LaDainian Tomlinson, you’re willing to die with this guy. This guy has been a leader, he’s been a pillar in this community, you don’t do that to L.T. You do not do it. I don’t care how it is. I don’t care what you say. You don’t take out the guy and put in anyone else in that situation when that guy is running the way he is running last night.”

“Yeah, LT has lost a step, but losing a step for L.T. is still as good as anybody in the league. Last night he was focused, he was ready to run and when you took that away from L.T, you might’ve lost your leader. You might have lost a guy that has been a pillar in this community, a guy that has been a diehard Charger that will bleed and die for that team. When you send that kind of message to L.T, I think you hurt your team. That’s not A.J. calling down, that’s not Dean (Spanos) calling down to say ‘hey take LaDainian out.’ That’s not them. That comes from the top. That’s the coaching staff. And Norv needs to nip that in the bud, call L.T. in the office and let him know how he feels because you don’t want L.T. disgruntled and I know that’s not L.T’s makeup, he’s always been classy, but you cant do that to that type of guy. What kind of message did you send to LaDainian Tomlinson last night? What type of message did you send to the fans last night? A guy that has a nose for the end zone, to take him out on that particular play. That should have never had happened. People are frustrated. Players need to be held accountable and so do coaches. When the Chargers started three years ago (with Norv Turner) their record was 9-7, the next year 8-8 and what is our record right now? (Host: yup under .500) Same guys, same players. There has to be accountability on every level. Norv’s got a tough job, coaches have tough jobs, players have tough jobs too because when players don’t do their job, you know what it is. Send them packing. Ask Clinton Hart. There were a lot of things in that game that got exposed, but you lose as a team and you win as a team and people gotta take responsibility where responsibility needs to be taken.”

Interview via: XX Sports Radio

Transcription via: SportsRadioInterviews.com

Are The Chargers Still A Good Running Football Team?

For those who claim it foolish to read too much into preseason play, I'd argue that there is indeed valuable insight into a team's prospects that can be gained through watching exhibition games. While preseason win totals are certainly not an accurate predictor of regular season records, what the preseason can tell us is what the team's core offense and defense does, and doesn't, do well. The most obvious example for me is the fact that all preseason long, the Chargers struggled to maintain a consistent running attack but were able to make big plays through the air, down the field. This is a trend that has carried over into the regular season, and as such, brings up some interesting discussions. Have the San Diego Chargers changed their offensive identity under Norv Turner? Has the emergence of Philip Rivers and the aging of Ladainian Tomlinson caused the team to change its approach towards generating offensive production? Do the Chargers have the personnel to required to be a successful power running team, or will they lean heavily on their passing attack?

(Photo Credit: Mike Nowak/San Diego Chargers)

Going back to the preseason, Chargers running backs through four exhibition games averaged a paltry 3.5 yards per carry. Their average through week 1 of the regular season? 3.3 yards per carry. Heading into this season, I thought it would be a goal of the Chargers to get back to running the football with effectiveness. AJ Smith said leading up to the draft that the Chargers needed to improve their run game:

"I just know we're not good enough. But I will say this, which I've said before: we need to have a solid, consistent running game. We have to."

The Chargers have tried to run the ball, but are often unsuccessful. They lack creativity, and make running the ball seem like a chore. Running the ball on first down is becoming trademark Chargers football, and it's not fooling anyone. It would be one thing if the Chargers were a team who could run the ball with unashamed repetition, daring the opposing defense to stop them. But the Chargers are simply not that good yet. These are not the Minnesota Vikings; they are more like the Indianapolis Colts.

As far as I'm concerned, I think the Chargers might as well come out and say they are a passing team. They should be more open about the fact that they have an elite Quarterback in Philip Rivers who is surrounded by weapons. The Chargers are a very good passing team and should be proud of it. Having said that, having a balanced attack is obviously the ideal situation, so the San Diego Chargers would be better off using the pass to set up the run. Stop running into stacked boxes on first down, use more play action, more screens, and I think the Chargers have more success.

Says Head Coach Norv Turner, "We want to be a running team. We want to pound the ball. We want to mix the run. But there was a lot of times over the last year and a half that, when we go back and throw it like we did in the fourth quarter, 12 for 14 for a 144 yards, we're pretty good. So we're always torn with that (running vs. passing). But we're going to continue to run the football. But we've got a lot of guys who can make plays and contribute, so we've got to be a great a protection team, and we've got to find a way to use all the guys we have."

The Chargers seem intent on getting 20-25 rushes in per game, but the question still remains if they will be productive or not. What's your take; should the Chargers continue to pound the ball, or will they be better off letting Philip Rivers take over the game? Can the Chargers win a championship with their offense? Drop a comment below and let me know what you think!

LT & Me: A Football Story And So Much More

I'll admit that I'm hardly a book critic, but I do love an entertaining story. My favorite authors range from Bill Bennet to C.S. Lewis, from Scott Adams to King David.

In the world of sports I have read some interesting books, but they typically don't qualify as more than average at best in my opinion. So when I began reading LT & Me, a book by LaDainian Tomlinson's mom Loreane Tomlinson, I did not have very high expectations. But I'm happy to say that this book was a great read and exceeded every expectation that I had. You might be asking yourself, "Why do I want to read a book by LT's mom?" Honestly, I asked myself the same thing. But I gave the book a chance, and I'm very glad that I did.

After reading LT & Me, two things come to mind. First, this is a great story which focuses on the life of LT, from birth through the end of the 2007 playoffs. I truly enjoyed reading stories about LT's upbringing, and especially his growth in football- that alone would be enough for any football fan, and most importantly any Chargers fan. It was very interesting to read about his difficulty in securing a spot as a running back, a position he seems to have been born to play. But beyond football, this book is about more than sports. It's about a real family who had real problems and struggles and worries. This book is about the power of faith and hope, and of a mother who would not compromise her beliefs while raising her three kids. LT & Me is a book about football, and everything that is more important than football- family, faith, and convictions.

LT is the MVP on the football field, but Loreane's life-lessons, taught through the stories of a struggling single mom, should be an inspiration to all. With strong values and a big heart (qualities that are also visible in her son), LT & Me is a story that shows you what really matters in raising a champion. This book should be passed on to any family with kids who have dreams (I think every kid out there would fit that description).

I highly recommend that you buy, check-out, or borrow LT & Me. If you have read it yourself, please take a moment to leave your comment about the book as well.

Versatile Chargers Offense Will Be Difficult To Defend

Every team is looking to create a spark on offensive side of the football; some teams build around a quarterback, while other teams build around a featured runner. Very few teams can legitimately say they've successfully built around both. The San Diego Chargers are one of the rare teams in the NFL with almost perfect balance between the ground game and the passing game.

With weapons all over the field, and without a featured player to key on, defenses are going to be forced to spread out and defend the entire field when they face the Bolts. This in turn creates match-up problems, resulting in opportunities for big plays. Whether its Antonio Gates' presence that frees up Vincent Jackson down field, or its Chris Chambers drawing the safety out of the box so that Ladainian Tomlinson can get to the second level, the Chargers should continue to be a dynamic offensive machine capable of scoring at any time.

The key component to the Chargers' offensive success has been and will continue to be the play of their quarterback, Philip Rivers. Rivers came out of a system at NC State where we was asked to distribute the ball around, and that experience has directly translated to his game on the pro level. He's still spreading the ball to his many weapons, but he limits his mistakes because he knows he doesn't need to force the ball to one specific guy.

"In this offense, with this group of guys that we have, it's hard to pin-point a go-to guy," say Rivers. "I kind of like to think that goes from week to week."

Up in Minnesota, you can be guaranteed that the Vikings are going to try to score points and win games by establishing the run with Adrian Peterson getting lots of touches. In Indianapolis, Peyton Manning is going to throw the ball forty to fifty times a game. The Colts have struggled to run the ball with consistency, instead placing tremendous pressure on Manning to win games through the air. In San Diego, however, the Chargers no longer need to wear Ladainain Tomlinson out in order to generate enough positive yardage. They've got a variety of options, which makes them a nightmare for opposing defenses to prepare for.

"You never know. Vincent could have eight catches one game, and [Antonio] Gates the next. LT could lead in receptions one week. Sproles, Chambers, Malcom... I could go on and on. Legedu has made some big plays and continues to, out here [in training camp]. You never know who it's going to be any given week. I think the key is to have a group as unselfish as we have. You want them to be a little selfish, because you want every receiver to want the ball, and to be hungry for it. But they all have a way to really encourage and pull for one another. They really enjoy the success each other has."

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The Best Of Ladainian Tomlinson

I came across an excellent highlights mixtape of Ladainian Tomlinson doing his thing on the football field. LT is right up there with Junior Seau as my two favorite Chargers of all-time. Very early on, you could tell that Tomlinson was something special. He was deadly in the open field. His jump-cuts were downright nasty. And he has always had an uncanny nose for the endzone. If after watching this video you aren't pumped for the upcoming Chargers season, you need to turn in your Bolt fan card.




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Tomlinson Wants To Leave A Lasting Mark On The Game

Ladainian Tomlinson stopped by the ESPN studios this week for a sit down video interview. In the talk, LT spoke of growing older, enduring injuries and the struggle to stay healthy, why he feels he can bounce back from a down year, and his chase for "the record" - Emmitt Smith's 18,355 career rushing yards:

"I realized how close you can come to not playing the game anymore," says Tomlinson. "When you're young, you figure 'I'm going to play as long as I want to. Everything is so easy right now, the sky's the limit.' But after going through what I did last year [nagging injuries that led to sub par production], I realized that I don't want to walk away from the game and look back and say, 'You know what, I should have went after the record. I should have kept playing, and see if I can really get it.' Ultimately, that's what it's all about - it's about leaving a mark on the game. If I'm gone, then it's over. When I'm gone, it's over. There wont be any coming back and forth, so I want to make sure that I do it right the first time."


How realistic is LT's goal of becoming the NFL all-time rushing leader? He needs around 7000 yards to accomplish that lofty feat. If he can average at least 1000 yards per season for the next 7 seasons, he could do it. But will he play for 7 more years? And if so, do you think he'll still be a San Diego Charger?

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5 Records Ladainian Tomlinson Can Break In 2009

June 23 marked the 30th birthday of our favorite running back, LaDainian Tomlinson. And as the calendar turned on his 30th birthday, it brought much doubt that he will be able to return to the injury-free Pro Bowl days of his youth. There are those, both outside and inside of San Diego, who have determined that LT has lost his edge, that he is no longer the game-changing threat that he once was. Even though Defensive Coordinators will continue to stack the box against him, some NFL fans will still have labeled the man as over-the-hill and worn down. However, it is precisely these doubters and naysayers who fuel Tomlinson's fire.

Reports out of Chargers camp continue to point out that LT is pain-free and in great shape. Unlike 2008 where Tomlinson started out the season with nagging injuries, 2009 is proving to be a healthy year for LT. He's able to maintain his regular training schedule, working out daily without limitations. And while publicly the Chargers coaching staff will only comment on LT’s great performance in practice, his teammates have made it no secret that he is both in shape and playing with a chip on his shoulder, and expect nothing but greatness from their captain.

That got us thinking here at BoltHype; If Ladianian Tomlinson is as healthy and as motivated as we hope and his teammates believe, just how far can he go this year? Already known as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, where would another big year put him in the record books?

5 Records Ladainian Tomlinson Can Break In 2009

1. Tomlinson can move within striking distance of the record for career rushing touchdowns:

LaDainian already holds the single season record for points scored (186) and touchdowns (31). For career rushing TD’s he currently has 126*, behind only Emmitt Smith (164). Needing 38 rushing touchdowns to pass Smith, I imagine that LT will move closer but not take the record until next season. Thirty-eight TD's in one season would be a dream come true, but in reality it will take a couple of very strong years to top Smith. As for total career points scored, unless you’re a kicker you’re just not going to come close to that record. (*Corrected)

2. Tomlinson can move up to 7th place all-time for career rushing yards:

Currently sitting at 11760 career rushing yards, LT ranks 14th on the list. Maintaining his 1470 yards per season average, he should move into 7th place on the all-time list by the end of this season and into 1st place by the end of 2014. So perhaps that one isn’t going to happen, not unless he can really blow it up for a few more years.

3. Tomlinson can hold the all-time record for most single games with 200+ yards rushing:

Already with five career games with 200 yards rushing, LT is one more 200-yard game away from tying OJ Simpson for the league lead. That’s the kind of record that a motivated and pissed off running back may be within grasp of reaching and even exceeding this season.

4. Tomlinson has a shot at gaining the most yards from scrimmage in a single season:

This record currently belongs to SDSU alum Marshall Faulk with 2429 yards from scrimmage (over 1000 yards rushing and receiving). LT is 3rd on the list 2370 yards, which came in the 2003 season. That was back when LT wasn’t just part of the offense, he was the offense! Now, with Rivers and Gates and Sproles, it becomes less and less likely that he’ll be able to come close to that mark. But again, he’s healthy, he’s strong, and he’s out to prove his doubters wrong- perhaps anything is possible.

5. Tomlinson can break the San Diego Chargers record of longest run from scrimmage:

As far as Chargers records go, not surprisingly LT pretty much owns any and all significant running back records. Rushing yards, TD’s, and rushing attempts are all Chargers records that belong to LT. One team record that I’d love to see him break is the longest run, currently standing at 87 yards. I know, it’s a stat that is really insignificant. To even accomplish it your team has to have horrible field position. Then, you have to be lucky enough to break free for a long run with no penalties. And two 44-yard rushes won’t cut it. You have to run the full 88-yards (or more) in one shot to break the record. Call it a selfish objective, but there is nothing better than watching a game and seeing LT bolting through the secondary for a long gain.

As you take a quick look through the record books, you will notice Tomlinson is near the top of most applicable categories. But to overtake some of the greats of NFL-past, he really needs a few more excellent seasons. With all of the speculation this offseason that he is playing what could be his final season as a Charger, perhaps that adds even a little extra incentive to kick-ass this season and prove his critics wrong. The defense will be better this year, the passing game has reached an elite level, but we all know that the easiest path to a Super Bowl ring will be on the back of LaDainian Tomlinson.

Written by Jeff Williams

Sponsored link: Betus review

Madden NFL 10 Ratings (Madden 2010)

Experience first-hand what it's like to Fight for Every Yard in Madden NFL 10. With the all-new Pro-Tak™ animation technology, players have more control over the outcome of each play. Whether driving a receiver towards the first down, or battling for a fumble at the bottom of a pile, the play won't end until the whistle blows.

Add to that the most immersive broadcast presentation and online innovation to date, and Madden NFL 10 captures the authenticity and emotion of the NFL like never before.

The Madden video game has taken on a life of it's own. Madden video tournaments are held all over the nation on Xbox 360, Playstation 2, and Playstation 3. EA Sports is constantly pushing the bar for innovation in a football video game.

Always controversial, the Madden ratings and rankings are a somewhat accurate description of where professional football players and teams rank among their peers.

In terms of Chargers player ratings, this is what we know so far. Note: Shawne Merriman is not one of the top 10 defensive players in the game. Also, Jason Witten is rated 2 points higher than Antonio Gates.

Philip Rivers, #7 QB
Overall = 88
TP = 81
TAS = 96
TAM = 94
TAD = 79
AW = 91
SP = 63

TP: Throw Power; TAS: Throw Accuracy Short; TAM: Throw Accuracy Mid; TAD: Throw Accuracy Deep; AW: Awareness; SP: Speed

LaDainian Tomlinson, #3 RB
Overall = 94
SP = 90
AG = 92
TR = 87
EL = 90
BCV = 95
CA = 87

SP: Speed; AG: Agility; TR: Trucking; EL: Elusiveness; BCV: Ball Carrier Vision; CA: Carrying

Antonio Gates, #3 TE
Overall = 95
SP = 85
CA = 88
RR = 94
ST = 77
CIT = 94
AW = 88

SP: Speed; CA: Catching; RR: Route Running; ST: Strength; CIT: Catch in Traffic; AW: Awareness

So football fans, do you plan on purchasing Madden football video game this year? If so, what system will you buy it for? Also, do you generally agree with the rankings/ratings or do you find issues with the way EA grades the NFL teams and players?

You can see the full San Diego Chargers Madden NFL 10 Ratings here:

http://espn.go.com/videogames/features/madden/madden10?teamId=8

Tomlinson Says He's Healthy, Strong, And Fast

For years Ladianian Tomlinson has been one of the most prolific offensive weapons in the National Football League. In his first seven seasons in the NFL, Tomlinson was unstoppable in his claim of pro football's record books. Approaching each season with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove, LT erased all doubts that he would go down in history as one of the game's all-time greats. But as he approaches the stigmatic age of 30, Tomlinson again finds himself having to prove the doubters wrong.

LT has set the bar so high for running backs in the NFL, that even he is finding it difficult to constantly meet such stratospheric expectations. Held back by nagging injuries last year, Tomlinson could never really find his stride. Couple that with his head coach's new approach to the Chargers offense, and it's not hard to see why LT's production was the lowest of his illustrious career.

“I think, in my case, it’s been two of the most unfortunate injuries that a guy can go through. A lot of times what happens is guys start to have the nagging injuries, the chronic injuries is what they call them; the certain things that just continue to keep bothering you. I haven’t had that problem. As of right now, I’m fully healthy, I’m strong again, fast. All the things I used to do before my injury, I’m able to do without a problem. I really don’t put too much stock in the age factor because when you can play the game and you still got it, you still got it. I definitely still got it but that’s for me to prove and I can’t wait to get on the field so I can do that.”

Those skeptical that Tomlinson can indeed bounce back and have another Pro Bowl-caliber year point to the inevitable fact that LT is going to be a 30 year old running back in a league that traditionally hasn't been kind to ball carriers who've lived for three decades or more. But LT simply sees the question of age as another opportunity to prove the doubters wrong.

“I’ve stayed healthy, played every single game, put up huge numbers. The last two years it could have happened to anybody. It could have happened my first year, it could have happened my second year and the talk would have been, “He just needs to get healthy, they just need to keep him healthy.” But now since I’m approaching 30, that’s the stigma that everybody fights. All the great ones, they fight this. I can’t argue with that but I still feel like I’m in great shape and healthy.”

There's no question that Tomlinson is not your typical running back. Indeed, Tomlinson is a rare breed who's among the best to ever play. Already a sure-fire inductee into Canton's Pro Football Hall of Fame, there are still accomplisments that LT strives to achieve before retiring; winning the Super Bowl and breaking childhood hero Emmit Smith's rushing record.

“It’s something that’s there and as I get closer to the record, I definitely want to chase it. Life in the NFL is so short and so many great things happen and I just want to take every opportunity and advantage I have playing this game and not take anything for granted. When I’m done, I can always look myself in the mirror and say, “You know what, I gave it everything I had and I did it the right way.”

Does Tomlinson have a legitimate shot at the record, or will his carries continue to decline as the league moves towards a running-back-by-committee approach? Would you like to see LT break the rushing record, even if that means he has to do so on another team? Or would you rather he retire a Charger and never wear another team's uniform?

Hat tip to Jimmy Shapiro's blog SportsRadioInterviews.com

Not Just A Good PR Move, Bringing Back Tomlinson Makes Football Sense

With Ladainain Tomlinson coming back for at least one more year, the San Diego Chargers have ensured that they'll not only have the face of the the franchise back in the fold, but also an elite running back who still has a lot left in the tank.

The Chargers and LaDainian Tomlinson announced his restructured contract, and it was as if there was never any doubt in anyone's mind: LT will remain a Charger, and all seems right in the world once again for Bolts fans.

That all sounds good- I mean, I was at the front of the "Keep LT" bandwagon. But funny, this isn't exactly what I expected. Under the terms of the new deal, LT's contract remains basically unchanged for the 2009 season, aside from some new bonus money that will lower his cap-number. That's alright for the face of the franchise, but surprising for a 30-year old RB who ended the last two seasons with injuries.

If the Chargers are happy with it, who am I to complain? All I know is that I expected a slightly deeper salary cut and a more performance-based contract. And with the potential savings, I was expecting to see some money thrown at a free-agent safety or D-lineman.

Just call me an arm-chair GM.

Again, given the alternatives, keeping LT was the right move. That's not blind optimism or fan loyalty, that's a fact- there wasn't a better RB to replace him with unless you burn a high draft-pick on one. With the holes we have to fill, you have to admit that keeping LT seems like a pretty good option.

The fan in me is pretty happy. LT belongs in the blue-and-gold, and if the Chargers can get their act together and win a championship, LT deserves to be a part of it. Just get him some blocking and look out!

Sproles Is More Dangerous Than LT Says One NFL Coach

The San Diego Chargers and Ladainian Tomlinson finally coming to an agreement contractually this week certainly boosts the team's playoff chances. Tomlinson is eager to prove that he can still be an elite runner in the NFL, and the chip on his shoulder heading in to 2009 should not be overlooked. But not everyone feels LT is a versatile and explosive threat out of the backfield. In fact, one NFL coach think Sproles is the most dangerous running back on San Diego's roster:

"Sproles is more dangerous to me than the other guy. I was more concerned about Sproles than I was about Tomlinson. He's quick, explosive, and Tomlinson doesn't have that anymore. Sproles is much better and I guarantee he will be a greater factor next season. He's a great player, don't get me wrong. But he's got a lot of injury problems."

Is this anonymous coach totally off-base, or is there some validity to his statements?

Source: NFL.com

Tomlinson Signs New Three-Year Deal With The Chargers

Breaking news: The San Diego Chargers annouced tonight that Ladainian Tomlinson has agreed to sign a new three-year deal, keeping LT in San Diego through 2011.


The following is taken from the team issued press release:

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San Diego Chargers President Dean Spanos announced today a new three-year contract with running back LaDainian Tomlinson through 2011. Tomlinson’s old contract also was through 2011.
“This is a good day for the Chargers and for Chargers fans,” said Spanos. “It was important to me to get this done so LT could continue his career here in San Diego where he means so much to our team, our fans and our community. The alternative was just unthinkable. He belongs in San Diego.”

“I love San Diego and being a part of this team with my teammates,” said Tomlinson. “My number-one priority was to stay here in San Diego. I truly believe this is the place that gives me the best chance to be successful and win a championship. I want to finish the job we started when I got here eight years ago. My heart has always been in San Diego. I couldn’t imagine putting on another uniform.

“I really appreciate the role Dean played throughout this process. He made it work for everyone, and I appreciate his friendship more than he knows.”

The NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 2006 and a five-time Pro Bowl selection, Tomlinson rushed for 1,110 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2008. His play down the stretch was critical in the team capturing its third-straight AFC West title. His three-touchdown performance against Denver in the ’08 regular-season finale catapulted the Chargers in to the playoffs. Tomlinson suffered a groin injury however in the playoffs and was severely limited.

Tomlinson’s NFL career has Hall of Fame written all over it. He’s the only player in league history to start his career with eight-straight seasons of 10-or-more rushing touchdowns and he’s the third to start it with eight-or-more 1,000-yard seasons. He captured the NFL’s MVP Award in ’06 following a record-breaking season, one in which he shattered the NFL marks for points (186), rushing touchdowns (28) and total touchdowns (31), while racking up a career-best 1,815 yards. A year earlier in 2005, Tomlinson tied an NFL record by scoring a touchdown in 18 consecutive games, including a record 14-straight games with a rushing touchdown.

Tomlinson owns or holds a share of 28 team records. The NFL’s 14th all-time leading rusher with 11,760 yards, he ranks second all-time in NFL rushing touchdowns (126) and he’s tied for fourth in total touchdowns (141).

Tomlinson’s reach in San Diego extends well beyond the football field. The NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2006 for his work in the community, LT and his wife, LaTorsha, are founders of the Tomlinson Touching Lives Foundation. The foundation hosts events throughout the year, including youth football camps in San Diego and Texas, a golf tournament, a Thanksgiving program in which they provide more than 2,100 San Diego families with complete holiday dinners and a Christmas program in which they give away more than 1,500 holiday gifts to the patients at San Diego’s Children’s Hospital and Health Center. At each Chargers’ home game, LT hosts “The 21 Club,” where he invites 21 kids from San Diego youth groups and nonprofit organizations to attend a game. After the game, LT invites the children down to the field where they get a one-on-one visit with their football hero.
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Source: Chargers.com

Breaking Down The Chargers - Part 2

In part two of our ongoing series focusing on the Chargers strengths and weaknesses, we take a closer look at the running back position. I was hoping to have some finality to the Ladainian Tomlinson contract renegotiations before writing this column, but as of today we still don’t know exactly how it’s all going to pan out. Will LT and the Chargers reach an agreement soon, or will this drag out to the point where the team is forced to take drastic measures? All we can do now is speculate, as any number of conclusions seem feasible.

Those who have followed my columns over the years know how highly I regard LaDainian Tomlinson. He is a genuine guy, a player with a lot of passion for the game and a lot of heart. As running backs go, he will forever be listed among the best ever. Unfortunately, last season was probably the worst of LT’s renowned career since his rookie season in 2001. His 1110 yards rushing was his lowest ever, and his 11 rushing TD’s was a large drop from previous years. Now that single below average (for LT), injury-riddled season has led to some doubt that LT will return to the Chargers for the 2009 season.

There are basically two schools of thought regarding LT at this point in his career. The first sees LT as an aging, overused running back whose career is on the decline and will never recover. A knee injury in the 2008 playoffs, as well as multiple injuries in the 2008 season point towards the beginning of the end for LT’s career. Knee, toe, and groin injuries are not exactly the building blocks for future successful seasons as a running back, so for all intents his career is over.

The second school of thought believes that LT is still one of the best-conditioned athletes in the NFL, and that the injuries he has sustained are mere flukes and not a signal for future injury. The more significant worry is improving the offensive line that regressed dramatically last year. We’ll dig into the O-line in future columns, but basically two injured Pro-Bowl lineman with two sub-par linemen on the right side gave LT little chance to find a hole to run through.

As you decide which school of thought you subscribe to, I can’t let you forget about Darren Sproles, who’s franchise tag insures that the Chargers can at least control his destiny for the upcoming season. This fan favorite opened a lot of eyes in the playoff win against Indianapolis. He’s a great change-up and a deadly weapon for any offensive coordinator. I’ll admit that the franchise tag surprised me, but I believe that in the long run it was really just a negotiating tactic for the Chargers. Expect the Chargers to figure out a way to sign him to a multi-year deal or trade him. I just can’t see them paying Sproles franchise-tag money for one season, especially for a guy whom the Chargers know can’t be our 1st string running back.

That brings us back to LT. The uncertainty surrounding the future Hall Of Famer has a lot of fans divided. Whether you believe he’s past his prime or not, I simply ask: Are we better off with or without LT next season? I have to believe that we are better off with LT. On a team with some important holes to fill, I don’t want to use a 1st round pick on LT’s replacement, and I don’t believe that Sproles can carry the team on his diminutive shoulders.

That means you have to keep LT. You have to find a way to make it work. I’m all for renegotiating his contract since he’s willing to discuss it but you can’t let the guy walk. We have too many other positions to worry about to try to replace a guy who still had over 1000-yards rushing while playing 15½ games with an injury.

In this discussion of Chargers running backs you can’t forget Michael Bennett, Jacob Hester, and Mike Tolbert. Bennett is a solid veteran backup who received surprisingly little work last season. He should be in the Chargers plans for 2009, and I’m hoping with a full training camp he will be given a little playing time in the regular season. Hester, as good of a guy as he is, was a waste of a 2009 2nd round draft pick. Most everyone believes that AJ picked him too early in 2008 (3rd round) and gave up too much to get him (see that 2009 2nd round pick). That being said, he’s a gamer who could turn into a Mike Alstott type of player. He lacks some of the raw athleticism of some of his peers, but he is the type of player who plays tough and can continue to improve with enough playing time. Expect him to start at fullback for the Chargers, with Tolbert filling the backup fullback role unless the Chargers find another guy they just can’t pass up.

We’re getting close to a final decision on LT, one way or the other, so give us your predictions ASAP.

LT Says He's Open To A Contract Renegotiation (Video)

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