Ladainian Tomlinson signed a 2-year deal with the team that kicked the Chargers out of the Playoffs, the New York Jets. Considering that Marty's son is there and the fact he will probably get allot more carries with the Jets rather than behind Adrian Peterson, the signing comes as no suprise. The Chargers don't play the Jets this year, but isn't another showdown between the two teams in this upcoming Playoffs fun to think about?
Showing posts with label Ladainian Tomlinson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ladainian Tomlinson. Show all posts
Monday, March 15, 2010
LT signs with the J-E-T-S, Lame - Lame - Lame
Friday, February 26, 2010
Chargers Team Report 2-26-10
Source: USA Today
It’s a question which could dog Chargers fans for years. A mystery which really never will be solved.
It comes to light again in the wake of the team releasing the incomparable LaDainian Tomlinson.
As the future Hall of Famer heads for another team, he does so by leaving behind an offense which is pass-first.
This isn’t always the way it was.
Not when Tomlinson, the NFL’s MVP in 2006, was in his prime, playing for a head coach who embraced the run in Marty Schottenheimer.
The Chargers, with Tomlinson leading the way, were inching their way into the category of being an elite team. After going 14-2 while riding Tomlinson in his MVP season in which he set the NFL mark for touchdowns and led the NFL in rushing, the wheels came off.
The Chargers coughed-up a fourth-quarter lead to the Patriots in the playoffs and lost a home game they should have won.
The result was a percolating power struggle came to a head, and general manager A. J. Smith got his way with Schottenheimer being canned.
But one can’t help but wonder: Would the Chargers have won that elusive first Super Bowl if Schottenheimer and his pound-and-ground approach stayed in place?
“Definitely you look back when you don’t win a championship, you always look back and wonder what if?” Tomlinson said. “I do. But at the same time things always change in the NFL and changes were made and you roll with the punches.”
But Tomlinson was never the same — and the back of his football card proves it.
“I would say since Marty left — and I’m just being honest — the focus of running the football the way it was every year, my numbers dropped every single year. So for me I look at the numbers … did I get old the year after I won the MVP? I don’t think so. What about a couple of years? I certainly don’t think so.”
Tomlinson was the benefactor of a coach, as he put it, placing “the ball in his stomach.”
But that thinking went south when Norv Turner took over for Schottenheimer. He decided, with Smith’s blessing, to move the ball through the air, that the running game would be marginalized as the team decided its best shot at greatness came on Philip Rivers’ right arm and not Tomlinson’s two legs.
But three years later are the Chargers any closer to reaching, let alone winning, a Super Bowl? Turner was brought in because the Chargers’ brass believed he was better wired to win in the playoffs.
While the first year proved that point when the Chargers — many think on the fumes of Schottenheimer’s last club — advanced to the AFC title game.
But since, it’s been one rough playoff patch after another for the Chargers. And while Turner can point to a 3-3 playoff record while wearing Chargers headsets, the truth is he has lost three of his last four playoff games and the team, at this point in the offseason, seems to have regressed.
Marty-ball is long gone. So too, is Tomlinson.
But Chargers fans will long debate if the club’s eventual kicking of them both to the curb was the right thing to do then, as well as now.
NOTES, QUOTES
—There is increased chatter Darren Sproles will not be brought back as the Chargers aren’t inclined to pay last year’s franchise player $7 million in 2010.
—LaDainian Tomlinson nearly got through his emotional farewell press conference without breaking down. But when he brought up the support of his family over his nine years in San Diego, the tears couldn’t be turned off. “I was all prepared and said I wasn’t going to do this,” he said after nearly a minute pause. “Sometimes emotions is what makes a person and as you guys know, I’ve always wore my emotions on my sleeves. So for that I’m not sorry.”
—Tomlinson’s agent, Tom Condon, said the team did his client a favor by releasing him early in the offseason. “That part of it was positive,” Condon said.
—WR Vincent Jackson was convicted of his second DUI charge and could be suspended a game or two next season by the NFL.
—ILB Stephen Cooper admits the Chargers’ dressing area will be different without No. 21 in his cubicle in its southeast corner. “He was universally respected and it will be strange not having him in the locker room,” Cooper said.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “I told him I wish on my part that I could have contributed more as a GM to make it happen for him to hold that trophy or a Super Bowl ring.” — GM A.J. Smith on failing to build a Super Bowl team while Tomlinson was playing for the Chargers.
STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL
OFFSEASON STRATEGY
The biggest news, early on, will be the Chargers parting ways with running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
It’s clear the future Hall of Famer isn’t going to return at any price, as his pride was wounded during a season in which he was an afterthought in the offense.
The team also has to decide how to attack Darren Sproles, another running back. He was given $6 million last year, and that seems to be a little rich for a guy who can’t rush every down — but is a heck of a returner and receiver out of the backfield.
It was believed the Chargers wouldn’t bring back outside linebacker Shawne Merriman, but in an uncapped year, his return is more plausible.
The team also needs to structure a long-term deal for left tackle Marcus McNeill, a key part of an offense which leans so heavily on the pass.
TEAM NEEDS
1. Running back: With Tomlinson being released and the team balking at paying Darren Sproles $7 million next season, this shortcoming has grown in importance and needs to be addressed.
2. Defensive tackle: Jamal Williams missed all but one game last year injured; the Chargers have to face the fact he is returning for his 13th season this year. A replacement here is needed.
3. Cornerback: If the Chargers go a different direction in regard to starter Antonio Cromartie, a replacement needs to be found. He may not be on the roster, and that includes former first-round pick Antoine Cason.
MEDICAL WATCH: No updates.
FRANCHISE PLAYER: None.
TRANSITION PLAYER: None.
UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
—DT Alfonso Boone filled a need last year but the team looks to get younger here.
—TE Brandon Manumaleuna is a solid blocker and should return — he likes the offense.
—C Dennis Norman is at a spot where the team has depth and likely won’t come back.
—WR Kassim Osgood is a three-time Pro Bowler as a special-teamer; he wants to try his luck at receiver and could flee.
—OL Jon Runyan is going to retire and run for Congress.
—DT Ian Scott doesn’t have the upside the Chargers are looking for and will likely depart.
—TE Kris Wilson is a solid special-teams player, but if someone offers him more of a chance to contribute in a base offense, he’s gone.
RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS (*indicates restricted because of uncapped year)
—RT Jeromey Clary will return but will be pushed by Brandyn Dombrowski for a starting job.
—*ILB Tim Dobbins is a solid backup after getting lapped by Brandon Siler; he should return.
—*WR Malcom Floyd could likely get more passes thrown his way elsewhere, but he likes San Diego and will likely take a little less to remain here.
—*DT Antonio Garay was a late-season addition and doesn’t figure in the team’s plans moving forward.
—*C Eric Ghiaciuc won’t have a place with the number of linemen — when healthy — ahead of him.
—*OLB Marques Harris is a decent pass rusher but the Chargers will likely see him go where he would get more of a chance to contribute.
—*WR Vincent Jackson is the team’s top receiver and will be brought back — unless the team has grown tired of his immaturity; that’s doubtful after two 1,000-yard seasons.
—*DL Travis Johnson will probably have to settle for less money, but the former first-round pick of the Texans might have found a home in San Diego.
—*LT Marcus McNeill is a stud at left tackle and among the team’s biggest offseason priorities.
—*OLB Shawne Merriman will return, possibly, if willing to swallow his pride and lower his price tag. A motivated Merriman playing on a one-year deal could be attractive to the Chargers.
—*RB Darren Sproles isn’t likely to be named the franchise player again this year and could flee if offered a long-term deal.
—*LB Dontarrious Thomas seldom saw the field when arriving late last year and appears to be a goner.
—*QB Charlie Whitehurst is learning a ton at the No. 3 spot, so he finally absorbs one more year of education and then moves on.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS
—OLB Antwan Applewhite can deliver a burst off the ball and is keen on special teams. He should be brought back.
—FB Mike Tolbert continues to improve and the Chargers could give him more carries in the base offense, depending on the situation at running back.
PLAYERS RE-SIGNED: None.
PLAYERS ACQUIRED: None.
PLAYERS LOST
—RB LaDainian Tomlinson (released).
It comes to light again in the wake of the team releasing the incomparable LaDainian Tomlinson.
As the future Hall of Famer heads for another team, he does so by leaving behind an offense which is pass-first.
This isn’t always the way it was.
Not when Tomlinson, the NFL’s MVP in 2006, was in his prime, playing for a head coach who embraced the run in Marty Schottenheimer.
The Chargers, with Tomlinson leading the way, were inching their way into the category of being an elite team. After going 14-2 while riding Tomlinson in his MVP season in which he set the NFL mark for touchdowns and led the NFL in rushing, the wheels came off.
The Chargers coughed-up a fourth-quarter lead to the Patriots in the playoffs and lost a home game they should have won.
The result was a percolating power struggle came to a head, and general manager A. J. Smith got his way with Schottenheimer being canned.
But one can’t help but wonder: Would the Chargers have won that elusive first Super Bowl if Schottenheimer and his pound-and-ground approach stayed in place?
“Definitely you look back when you don’t win a championship, you always look back and wonder what if?” Tomlinson said. “I do. But at the same time things always change in the NFL and changes were made and you roll with the punches.”
But Tomlinson was never the same — and the back of his football card proves it.
“I would say since Marty left — and I’m just being honest — the focus of running the football the way it was every year, my numbers dropped every single year. So for me I look at the numbers … did I get old the year after I won the MVP? I don’t think so. What about a couple of years? I certainly don’t think so.”
Tomlinson was the benefactor of a coach, as he put it, placing “the ball in his stomach.”
But that thinking went south when Norv Turner took over for Schottenheimer. He decided, with Smith’s blessing, to move the ball through the air, that the running game would be marginalized as the team decided its best shot at greatness came on Philip Rivers’ right arm and not Tomlinson’s two legs.
But three years later are the Chargers any closer to reaching, let alone winning, a Super Bowl? Turner was brought in because the Chargers’ brass believed he was better wired to win in the playoffs.
While the first year proved that point when the Chargers — many think on the fumes of Schottenheimer’s last club — advanced to the AFC title game.
But since, it’s been one rough playoff patch after another for the Chargers. And while Turner can point to a 3-3 playoff record while wearing Chargers headsets, the truth is he has lost three of his last four playoff games and the team, at this point in the offseason, seems to have regressed.
Marty-ball is long gone. So too, is Tomlinson.
But Chargers fans will long debate if the club’s eventual kicking of them both to the curb was the right thing to do then, as well as now.
NOTES, QUOTES
—There is increased chatter Darren Sproles will not be brought back as the Chargers aren’t inclined to pay last year’s franchise player $7 million in 2010.
—LaDainian Tomlinson nearly got through his emotional farewell press conference without breaking down. But when he brought up the support of his family over his nine years in San Diego, the tears couldn’t be turned off. “I was all prepared and said I wasn’t going to do this,” he said after nearly a minute pause. “Sometimes emotions is what makes a person and as you guys know, I’ve always wore my emotions on my sleeves. So for that I’m not sorry.”
—Tomlinson’s agent, Tom Condon, said the team did his client a favor by releasing him early in the offseason. “That part of it was positive,” Condon said.
—WR Vincent Jackson was convicted of his second DUI charge and could be suspended a game or two next season by the NFL.
—ILB Stephen Cooper admits the Chargers’ dressing area will be different without No. 21 in his cubicle in its southeast corner. “He was universally respected and it will be strange not having him in the locker room,” Cooper said.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “I told him I wish on my part that I could have contributed more as a GM to make it happen for him to hold that trophy or a Super Bowl ring.” — GM A.J. Smith on failing to build a Super Bowl team while Tomlinson was playing for the Chargers.
STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL
OFFSEASON STRATEGY
The biggest news, early on, will be the Chargers parting ways with running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
It’s clear the future Hall of Famer isn’t going to return at any price, as his pride was wounded during a season in which he was an afterthought in the offense.
The team also has to decide how to attack Darren Sproles, another running back. He was given $6 million last year, and that seems to be a little rich for a guy who can’t rush every down — but is a heck of a returner and receiver out of the backfield.
It was believed the Chargers wouldn’t bring back outside linebacker Shawne Merriman, but in an uncapped year, his return is more plausible.
The team also needs to structure a long-term deal for left tackle Marcus McNeill, a key part of an offense which leans so heavily on the pass.
TEAM NEEDS
1. Running back: With Tomlinson being released and the team balking at paying Darren Sproles $7 million next season, this shortcoming has grown in importance and needs to be addressed.
2. Defensive tackle: Jamal Williams missed all but one game last year injured; the Chargers have to face the fact he is returning for his 13th season this year. A replacement here is needed.
3. Cornerback: If the Chargers go a different direction in regard to starter Antonio Cromartie, a replacement needs to be found. He may not be on the roster, and that includes former first-round pick Antoine Cason.
MEDICAL WATCH: No updates.
FRANCHISE PLAYER: None.
TRANSITION PLAYER: None.
UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
—DT Alfonso Boone filled a need last year but the team looks to get younger here.
—TE Brandon Manumaleuna is a solid blocker and should return — he likes the offense.
—C Dennis Norman is at a spot where the team has depth and likely won’t come back.
—WR Kassim Osgood is a three-time Pro Bowler as a special-teamer; he wants to try his luck at receiver and could flee.
—OL Jon Runyan is going to retire and run for Congress.
—DT Ian Scott doesn’t have the upside the Chargers are looking for and will likely depart.
—TE Kris Wilson is a solid special-teams player, but if someone offers him more of a chance to contribute in a base offense, he’s gone.
RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS (*indicates restricted because of uncapped year)
—RT Jeromey Clary will return but will be pushed by Brandyn Dombrowski for a starting job.
—*ILB Tim Dobbins is a solid backup after getting lapped by Brandon Siler; he should return.
—*WR Malcom Floyd could likely get more passes thrown his way elsewhere, but he likes San Diego and will likely take a little less to remain here.
—*DT Antonio Garay was a late-season addition and doesn’t figure in the team’s plans moving forward.
—*C Eric Ghiaciuc won’t have a place with the number of linemen — when healthy — ahead of him.
—*OLB Marques Harris is a decent pass rusher but the Chargers will likely see him go where he would get more of a chance to contribute.
—*WR Vincent Jackson is the team’s top receiver and will be brought back — unless the team has grown tired of his immaturity; that’s doubtful after two 1,000-yard seasons.
—*DL Travis Johnson will probably have to settle for less money, but the former first-round pick of the Texans might have found a home in San Diego.
—*LT Marcus McNeill is a stud at left tackle and among the team’s biggest offseason priorities.
—*OLB Shawne Merriman will return, possibly, if willing to swallow his pride and lower his price tag. A motivated Merriman playing on a one-year deal could be attractive to the Chargers.
—*RB Darren Sproles isn’t likely to be named the franchise player again this year and could flee if offered a long-term deal.
—*LB Dontarrious Thomas seldom saw the field when arriving late last year and appears to be a goner.
—*QB Charlie Whitehurst is learning a ton at the No. 3 spot, so he finally absorbs one more year of education and then moves on.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS
—OLB Antwan Applewhite can deliver a burst off the ball and is keen on special teams. He should be brought back.
—FB Mike Tolbert continues to improve and the Chargers could give him more carries in the base offense, depending on the situation at running back.
PLAYERS RE-SIGNED: None.
PLAYERS ACQUIRED: None.
PLAYERS LOST
—RB LaDainian Tomlinson (released).
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
21 best memories of 21
Source: Chargers.com
As we celebrate LaDainian Tomlinson’s nine breathtaking seasons in San Diego, Chargers.com takes a look back at the 21 most memorable moments of the future Hall of Famer’s time in lightning bolts.
21. Becoming a Bolt – April 21, 2001 – The Chargers owned the first pick in the draft but swung a trade with the Atlanta Falcons, who wanted to draft quarterback Michael Vick. San Diego picked up Tim Dwight and two additional picks (3rd in 2001, 2nd in 2002) along with the fifth overall selection in 2001, the one they used to grab Tomlinson.
20. What a Start – September 9, 2001 –
19. Back to Back – September 30 - October 7, 2001 – LT rushed for 100-yards in back-to-back weeks 16 times in his career. The first time he accomplished the feat came in Weeks 3 & 4 of his rookie year. The 107 and 102-yard performances came against Cincinnati and Cleveland, two of the four teams that passed on an opportunity to select Tomlinson in the 2001 NFL Draft.
18. Catching on – December 7-14, 2003 – In a year in which he became the first player to catch 100 passes and rush for 1,000 yards in the same season, LT also became the first Chargers running back to ever record 100 receiving yards in consecutive games. He caught nine passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns in a win at Detroit and followed that performance with an 11-catch, 144-yard outing the next week against Green Bay.
17. Raider Hater – October 20, 2002 – In his first nine seasons, Tomlinson rushed for more yards against the Raiders than any other team (2,017). One of his most memorable performances against Oakland came in 2002 when he rushed for 153 yards and scored a 19-yard, game-winning touchdown in overtime in front of the Black Hole.
16. Another Big Day - December 1, 2002 – LT’s second-highest rushing performance of his career came in a 30-27 win over the Broncos in 2002. He carried 37 times for 220 yards and three touchdowns and also caught 11 passes for 51 yards to help lead the Chargers to victory.
15. Best in Bolts – October 3, 2004 – In just his 52nd career game, Tomlinson rushed for 147 yards against the Tennessee Titans to pass Paul Lowe and become San Diego’s all-time leading rusher.
14. Rushing Title II – December 30, 2007 – In limited action due to the fact that San Diego’s playoff seed was already decided, Tomlinson rushed for 56 yards in a win over the Raiders to hold off Adrian Peterson and give LT his second-consecutive NFL rushing title (1,474 yards).
13. Putting in Overtime – November 15, 2009 – LT scored a 16-yard touchdown in overtime to give the Chargers a 23-17 win over the Titans in Nashville. In the process, Tomlinson became the only player in NFL history to record three overtime touchdowns in a career.
12. Air it Out – September 9, 2007 – Tomlinson threw seven touchdown passes as a Charger, and his last was perhaps the most significant of them all. Trailing Chicago in the fourth quarter of the 2007 regular-season opener, LT hit
11. Four! – November, 2006 – During his run at the NFL’s single-season touchdown record, Tomlinson recorded back-to-back four-touchdown games in two of the biggest comebacks in team history. His four rushing touchdowns in Cincinnati helped the Chargers overcome a 21-point deficit in the second half, and a week later he scored four times to help San Diego win in Denver after the Bolts trailed 24-7 in the third quarter.
10. Patriot Games - September 29, 2002 – LT’s first 200-yard game of his career came in one of the biggest games in the early part of his career. Tomlinson rushed for 217 yards and two touchdowns – runs of 37 and 58 yards – as the Chargers downed the defending Super Bowl champion Patriots at Qualcomm Stadium.
9. Way to finish – December 28, 2003 – In the Chargers’ regular-season finale, Tomlinson rushed for a franchise-record 243 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime to begin what is now a 13-game winning streak over Oakland. Also that day, LT caught his 100th pass of the season, making him the first player in NFL history to rush for 1,000 yards and record 100 receptions in the same season.
8. One Moore Record – October 16, 2005 – Tomlinson tied former Baltimore Colts running back Lenny Moore’s NFL record by scoring a touchdown in 18 consecutive games during a win at Oakland. LT ran for a touchdown, caught a touchdown pass and threw a scoring strike to Justin Peelle, and in the process became just the fifth player since 1966 to accomplish the trifecta in a single game.
7. Moving on up – December 14, 2008 – In the 2008 regular-season finale, Tomlinson scored three touchdowns to help the Chargers cap an improbable late-season run that gave them their third-consecutive AFC West title. His first rushing touchdown of the night was his 124th of his career, pushing him past Marcus Allen and into second place on the NFL’s all-time list.
6. What a run – December 17, 2006 - The longest touchdown of LT’s career, an 85-yard sprint against the Kansas City Chiefs on NBC’s Sunday Night Football, allowed him break Paul Hornung’s record for points scored in a season. Tomlinson finished the year with 186 points to top Hornung’s 37-year-old mark of 176 set in 1960.
5. Passing a Legend - December 6, 2009 – It was a simple 11-yard gain that carried significance far beyond the first down marker. On a fourth-quarter run in Cleveland last December, Tomlinson passed Jim Brown to move into eighth place on the NFL’s all-time rushing list. After completing the run, LT jumped to his feet, raced to midfield and pointed to the booth where the greatest player in Browns history was sitting. After the game, Brown congratulated Tomlinson in the Chargers’ locker room and the two embraced.
4. The Clincher – December 19, 2004 - On a snowy afternoon at Cleveland Browns Stadium, LT rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns to help the Chargers clinch their first AFC West title since 1994.
3. Quite an Honor - February 2, 2007 - As clutch as he was on the field during his Chargers tenure, Tomlinson’s contributions to San Diego off the field were just as significant. At the conclusion of his 2006 MVP season, LT was awarded the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. The honor, named after Tomlinson’s childhood idol, recognizes on-field excellence as well as charitable contributions. LT’s “Touching Lives Foundation” hosts events throughout the year, including youth football camps in San Diego and Texas, a golf tournament, a fishing trip for kids from The Monarch School for homeless and at-risk teens in San Diego, 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.
2. Over the top – January 6, 2008 - Including the postseason, LT scored 158 touchdowns in a Chargers uniform. Perhaps his most special one came on a rainy Saturday afternoon in January of 2008. With just under nine minutes remaining in San Diego’s Wild Card playoff game, the Chargers led 10-6. Rather than kick a field goal, Norv Turner opted to try to make it a two-score game on a 4th-and-goal from the one yard line. Tomlinson took the
1. Witnesses to history – December 10, 2006 - That’s what Chargers fans were on so many occasions throughout LT’s career, and it was fitting that Josh Lewin used the term in his well-known call of LT’s record-breaking 29th touchdown in 2006. As soon as Tomlinson reached the end zone, he was greeted by his teammates, who hoisted the new NFL touchdown king on their shoulders. LT finished the year with an NFL-record 31 scores. Last season, Charger fans voted Tomlinson’s record breaker against the Broncos as the second greatest moment in team history.
Monday, February 22, 2010
A very sad day
Source: Chargers.com
Running back LaDainian Tomlinson, the Chargers all-time leading rusher, was released today after nine remarkable seasons in San Diego.
Chargers President Dean Spanos met with Tomlinson today and informed his veteran running back that he is being released.
“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,” Spanos said. “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.”
Tomlinson owns or shares 28 team records, including career rushing yards, yards from scrimmage and touchdowns. During his nine seasons in San Diego, Tomlinson won two rushing titles (2006 and ’07), set an NFL single-season record for touchdowns in a season (31 in ’06) and racked up 12,490 rushing yards, the eighth-highest total in NFL history. He was the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 2006 and earned Pro Bowl honors five times.
“I was fortunate to be the offensive coordinator here during LT’s rookie year in 2001 and it didn’t take long to realize that we were dealing with a special player and a special individual,” Chargers Head Coach Norv Turner said. “And when I returned to the Chargers in 2007, I was proud to be a part of his second NFL rushing title.
“LT is a true pro. He’s one of the greatest runners this game has ever seen and words can’t do justice to the things he’s accomplished on and off the field.”
In addition to his long list of achievements on the gridiron, Tomlinson’s tireless efforts in the community have benefitted thousands of individuals in San Diego as well as his native Texas. In 2006, LT received the NFL Man of the Year Award in recognition of his numerous philanthropic efforts.
“It’s fitting that LT’s and LaTorsha’s charity is called the ‘Touching Lives Foundation’ because that’s exactly what they’ve done,” Spanos said. “So many people have been positively affected by their generosity. Our community has been fortunate to have them.”
Tomlinson joined the Chargers in 2001 as the fifth overall selection in the NFL Draft. The Chargers originally held the top pick in the draft, but swung a trade with the Atlanta Falcons, who moved up to take quarterback Michael Vick. The Chargers nervously waited as Tomlinson fell to the fifth spot where they enthusiastically brought him into their fold.
“There were a lot of eyebrows raised when we made that trade, but LT proved to be everything we thought he’d be and more,” Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith said. “He’s a future Hall of Famer. My only regret is that he leaves San Diego without a Super Bowl ring.”
Tomlinson was one of 53 men recognized as the Greatest All-Time Chargers during the team’s 50th anniversary celebration last season and he was recently named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s. His 138 career rushing touchdowns are the second most in NFL history and his 153 total touchdowns ranks third in league annals.
“I look forward to the time when we’ll see his number retired and see him inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame,” Spanos said. “I can’t say enough about how much I’ve enjoyed being around LT and LaTorsha the last nine years.”
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Tomlinson says he won't be back with Bolts
LaDainian Tomlinson knows he has played his last game as a Charger.
“I’m not coming back,” Tomlinson told The San Diego Union-Tribune on Thursday. “I don’t believe I’ll be back in San Diego. I’ve accepted it.”
After more than a month of saying he did not know what would happen, Tomlinson said he has believed for a while he would be let go by the Chargers.
“I’ve been praying and meditating,” he said. “After doing that for a couple weeks, I just felt like it was over.”
Tomlinson has two years remaining on his contract, but he is due a $2 million roster bonus March 5 and would be paid $5 million in total salary in 2010. As part of the renegotiated contract he signed last March, he is guaranteed $1 million by the Chargers for next season.
Speaking by phone, Tomlinson paused a lot as he spoke of his future and of his past.
“It’s a mixed feeling,” said Tomlinson, the league MVP in 2006. “It’s mixed emotions. I’ve spent nine years of my life here, pretty much my youth. I gave the organization everything I have. I enjoyed the community.
“But there is a part I won’t miss. The football part is fun. But the business part sucks. I won’t miss that.”
Tomlinson said he doesn’t know when the Chargers will release him. He said his agent might call the club to expedite the process.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
LT Not Happy
Source: BoltHype
If you didn't have the time to listen to the link posted by Axion yesterday of LaDainian Tomlinson's interview with Scott & BR, I've broken down most of the key points after the jump. I even added in my two cents to most of his comments, because I'm a self-absorbed ego-maniac.
I know it's silly when I tell stories from my one day in the Chargers locker room and act as if they're the certifiable truth, but I'm going to do it again. The two times I was in that locker room, I accounted for every Chargers player except for two. Eric Weddle (who was injured and could usually be found walking around giving interviews to everyone) and LT. I assumed LT was in the trainer's room both times, but now I'm starting to wonder. If he disliked this locker room, and this group of guys so much, is it possible that he was spending time elsewhere (possibly the trainer's room) just to get away from them?
I don't think it's that far-fetched. It's not like the locker-room is all business. Hell, the entire offensive line was sitting around telling jokes every time I saw them. A lot of guys were getting dressed and then getting to their cars to go grab lunch (or dinner, or whatever), but while they were doing that they were dancing to music and talking to reporters or teammates. That seems like a situation that may have made Tomlinson a bit uncomfortable.
LT is a bit of a freak in the NFL. I read his mother's book about him and I think I sortof understand his personality from that. He's everything you'd expect him to be, or at least he is when his mother writes about him. He's not incredibly quite or shy, but he'd never be called loud. He's not overly emotional, but his emotions are strong. He is far too honest to be a bad person, because he'd never be able to lie to his mother, his wife or even the Charger fans.
LT is what we'd all like our athletes to be: humble, honest and normal. However, in a world where his co-workers make millions of dollars a year because of how fast they can run or how far they can throw, those qualities have become rarer and rarer. The Reggie Whites of the NFL have turned into Ray Lewis (humble? honest? normal?), and LT is finding it harder being a different kind of guy when he's not the star of the team.
Anyways, credit all around here. Credit Scott & BR for asking the right questions and credit LT for answering them all honestly.
- LT's wife is doing well with her pregnancy. She's due in July, but they don't yet know the sex of the baby.
- LaDainian can imagine what it would be like to play somewhere else next season and thinks he could have success wherever he plays.
- If the Chargers want LT back, he wants to come back for 2010. However, he will not renegotiate his contract with San Diego.
- S&BR: "Were you happy this year?" LT: No. (Somebody's been lying to Kevin Acee....)
- LT does not need to be a feature back. He's always enjoyed having another talented RB on the team to share carries with.
- Tomlinson seems to insinuating that the Chargers weak rushing attack in 2009 had more to do with Norv Turner than himself. The telling statement for me is "If you know how to run the ball, you know how to run it" when discussing whether or not LT needs a talented FB in front of him to be successful.
- LT didn't even know about Vincent Jackson being pulled over before the Jets game until days afterwards, even though there was plenty written about the team joking about it after the game. That says something about LT's involvement in the locker room.
- "There was a big part of this year, for whatever reason, where I didn't feel connected to the team." Things are starting to get juicy now. If I could read into LT's half-sentences (it's obvious he doesn't want to cause problems, so he's trying to choose his next words carefully), it seems to me that LT thinks his ability to be a team leader was hampered by his diminished role in the offense.
- "These guys that come into the league, it's not about the same values anymore. Faith, family, football.....to them it's not about that anymore." I agree and disagree. The nucleus of this team is not that old, and guys like Antonio Gates, Philip Rivers and Quentin Jammer are men of those values. I think LT is talking specifically about guys like Vincent Jackson, Shawne Merriman, Shaun Phillips, Antonio Cromartie and any other Chargers players that are single and usually end up at the club after a game. I'm not going to say LT is wrong is what he's saying, because I agree, but I don't think this is a problem with the Chargers specifically.
- "If that's going to be allowed......I can't deal with that type of stuff anymore." This interview, in it's entirety, was a criticism of some of the Chargers younger players (specifically the ones that get in trouble with the law) and also of Norv Turner. Not just of Norv's play-calling either. Whether or not it's true, and I think both sides differ in their thoughts on this, LT makes it sound like he'd be happy to have the opportunity to be a free agent so that he can end up on a more disciplined team (like the Patriots or Colts) that is focused on football 100% of the time.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
LT still healthy, thanks to Sproles
SAN DIEGO – Darren Sproles, a 5-foot-6 Hercules known to his family and friends as Tank, might prove to be more valuable to the Chargers this season than even his NFL-leading 2,279 all-purpose yards would suggest.
LaDainian Tomlinson, with an essentially inconsequential game to still survive, is looking forward to going into this postseason strong.
For that, LT can thank his head coach and their little buddy.
“Obviously I haven’t taken a lot of shots (this season) like I usually take,” Tomlinson said. “So I think it helped me.”
With what certainly will be less than a full game yet to play on Sunday against the Washington Redskins, Tomlinson is virtually certain to finish this season with fewer carries (currently 221), rushing yards (729) and receiving yards (242) than he has ever had or it ever occurred to anyone he would ever have.
But he is healthy, and he is smiling. Tomlinson acknowledged recently he is as content as he’s ever been as a Charger, because he believes this is the best Chargers team he’s been on in nine momentous seasons.
And the Chargers believe Tomlinson’s current spry step — he’s had a number of his most impressive runs of the season over the past three weeks — will be an important cog to any success they achieve in the postseason.
It was always the plan. As he has been asked doggedly all season about Tomlinson’s lack of production, head coach Norv Turner has repeatedly referred to Sproles’ output and how he believes it will help Tomlinson.
The Chargers’ rushing offense, while 29th in the NFL overall, is ranked 21st during the span of their 10-game win streak. The improvement is greater than that might seem — from 57.6 yards per game to 108.5.
While the identity of their offense remains Philip Rivers and his receivers, the Chargers have improved running the football. Over the past 10 games, they have run almost 11 more times per game versus the first five. And they’re averaging 3.5 yards per carry, up from 2.9 yards per carry the first five games.
“When we run the ball and have the threat of the run it allows our big-play people on the outside and Philip (Rivers) to have a chance to make plays,” Turner said.
Tomlinson, for his part in that, has over the past two games averaged 3.7 yards per carry.
That’s a half-yard better than in his first 10 games.
“One of our big things, and we’re a week away from doing it, was to have LT healthy and fresh going into the playoffs and to have LT and our running game making that type of progress,” Turner said. “If you look back, he started slow, there were injuries on the line, LT missed two games. But over the past 10 games and the past five, our running game has been more than effective.”
Tomlinson’s health has become a topic of great import at Chargers Park over the past two Januarys.
It was in the final game of the 2008 regular season that he suffered a severe hip injury, rendering him ineffective in the Chargers’ wild-card victory over Indianapolis and sidelining him for their divisional-round loss at Pittsburgh.
That came a year after he sprained his knee in the Chargers’ divisional-round victory at Indianapolis that allowed him to play just four snaps in their AFC Championship loss at New England.
“You really cherish it, you really do,” Tomlinson said yesterday. “You cherish it when you’re healthy and able to crank it up and do what you want to do versus playing hurt and just trying to gut it out for the team. I’m so thankful to be at this position and have two feet to run on.”
Spelling Tomlinson most often on third down — and later in routs, such as his three-touchdown game last Friday — Sproles has 91 carries (30 more than last season) for 325 yards and 45 receptions (16 more than last year) for 497 yards this season, while also remaining the team’s punt and kickoff returner. But he knows his value is also immeasurable.
“As long as we’ve got him in the playoffs, that’s a good thing,” Sproles said of Tomlinson. “I’ve saved his body some hits. It’s good.”
Friday, December 11, 2009
Chargers Team Report 12-11-09
Source: USA Today
Riding yet another winning streak, it’s time for the Chargers to Cowboy Up.
The Cowboys are up next for the first-place Chargers, as they tie up their seven-game winning streak to the hitching post outside splashy new Cowboys Stadium.
The Chargers have been living large lately, extending their winning run thanks to playing two of the NFL’s dregs: the Chiefs and Browns.
But that soft stretch of the season is history, with the Cowboys, Bengals and Titan looming in the not-so-distant future.
For the Chargers, they may or may not be playing the right team to notch win No. 8 in a row. But they are playing in the right month, as they have won 15 straight in Santa’s favorite month.
That 2-3 start is oh-so-history with the team leaning toward the tape at 9-3, and a game ahead of the Broncos in the AFC West.
“We seem to finish strong,” running back LaDainian Tomlinson said. “We’ve talked about it and really made it one of our mottos. I think that has a lot to do with our mind-sets in December. We want to play our best football in December going into January. This team is a real focused team and we have a knack for really taking it one game at a time and taking that idea to heart. We’ve done that.”
Now, can they do it against Dallas, a team, like the Chargers, that isn’t shy about reaching the end zone or getting after quarterbacks with its aggressive defense.
Tomlinson said it’s more than offensive and defensive weapons which have the Chargers in the driver’s seat for their fourth straight AFC West title. That mojo, which was harder to find than a snowball in San Diego earlier this season, is tagging along for the ride to the Lone Star State.
“It comes with our confidence,” Tomlinson said. “We believe that when the clock shows all zeros, that we will have had made enough plays to win the game.
“At the same time, going into the game, we identify who can beat us, how can we lose this game, and then we focus on that and the game plan and execute. The past seven weeks, we’ve been able to do that.”
Thanks, in part, to the fine play of quarterback Philip Rivers.
Rivers doesn’t quite get the headlines that Sunday’s counterpart, Tony Romo, does, but he is every bit as good — and many think better.
Especially in December, a month in which Rivers has never lost an NFL game.
“I think it says a lot about our team for one,” Rivers said. “We’ve had the focus and the attitude that you need down the stretch that it takes to make a run at it.
“The last few years we’ve been hot in November and December and this year we have a tough one. Now we are going to Dallas, another tough team in that NFC East division, so hopefully we can keep it going.”
Like Tomlinson, Rivers said the Chargers’ winning ways is like an avalanche picking up speed when thundering downhill. The more the Chargers are successful, the more their belief in each other grows.
“There’s no doubt that it’s contagious,” Rivers said. “Just like when you lose and you keep losing, it keeps getting harder and harder to win. When you win, it doesn’t get easier to win, but your confidence and your level of play seems to rise each week.
“I don’t really think there is a danger in it other than when people get caught up in it and start talking about the postseason and where we stand. As long as we don’t let that talk get in our way, I think we’ll be fine.
“There’s no denying that the talk is out there but if we can keep the boring one game at a time approach that we’ve had, we can keep this streak going.”
Boring, maybe. But there is nothing dull about watching the Chargers steamroll one defense after another. And there’s nothing ho-hum about building momentum for what they hope is a deep run in the playoffs.
But the Chargers also know the Cowboys have their own quarterback to get excited about. And with the Cowboys smarting from Sunday’s loss to the Giants, they are in desperation mode.
“He obviously can make all the throws; he’s having an outstanding year,” Turner said of Romo. “The thing that jumps out to you is that he’s such a good athlete, he creates plays with this athletic ability. You have to do a great job of containing him. He’s going to break contain because he does every game. Once he does, you have to do a great job of picking up the receivers and covering because he makes big plays with his athletic ability.”
The Chargers have been picking up their game since falling to the Broncos way back on Oct. 19. But they’ve got their horse headed in the right direction, with plenty of hay (nine wins) already in the barn.
But the Chargers are looking for No. 10, and they will have to master a sour Cowboys team to do it.
SERIES HISTORY: 9th regular-season meeting. Cowboys lead series 6-2. The last time the Chargers were in Dallas, it was the first game back after the 9/11 attacks. The Chargers won, 32-21. The Cowboys came to San Diego last in 2005, when the Cowboys pulled out a 28-24 victory on opening day.
NOTES, QUOTES
—DT Ogemdi Nwagbuo was placed on IR with an ankle injury. Nwagbuo’s absence leaves a void in the interior line rotation which had worked well for the Chargers since Jamal Williams was lost of the season in the opener. The team filled his roster spot by adding Antonio Garay, a defensive lineman from the Jets’ practice squad. Garay, a four-year pro, played for Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera when both were in Chicago.
—RB LaDainian Tomlinson is looking forward to heading to Dallas while recalling the Chargers’ last trip. The Chargers prevailed, but Tomlinson lost a couple of diamond earrings during the game — about a $25,000 hit.
“I remember it pretty vividly,” he said. “Obviously losing my earrings was one thing that sticks in my mind. I’ll never forget that. I remember us winning and talking to Emmitt Smith before the game. I remember being emotional before the game, having my family there and running out in Texas Stadium where I had visited a couple of times before and also watched many Dallas Cowboys games on television growing up. So it was a pretty emotional day for me.”
—This time last year the Chargers were 4-8 and Tomlinson was grumpy with the way the season was playing out. This year, the Chargers are rolling and Tomlinson is having as much fun as he has had in a while.
Does coach Norv Turner agree with that assessment?
“I don’t know because two years ago he led the league in rushing and people kind of forget that,” Turner said. “Last year he missed a substantial amount of time and had 1,200 yards and people act like that was a down year. I think he’s enjoying the fact that things are spread around. We aren’t wearing him out.
“Really, what we’re doing, in the first half of our games he’s playing — first half to maybe to the middle of the third quarter — he’s playing the game like it’s a normal game. That’s why his numbers are down. If he’s playing and getting 25 carries, I’m not sure that his numbers would be a lot different. When you don’t get the number of opportunities, you don’t get the number of opportunities to make the big play, the big run. (Darren) Sproles is getting some of those opportunities, which is helping us. I think LT knows that we have a good football team and that we’re getting better and we have a chance to continue to have success over the next couple months.”
—During the Chargers’ seven-game winning streak, they have outscored their rivals 52-7 in the first quarter.
—Count QB Philip Rivers among those anxious to see the Cowboys’ new palace.
“It’s a new stadium and I’m sure it will be something to see,” he said. “Anytime you are going on the road and playing against a championship-caliber team and a storied franchise like the Cowboys it’s exciting. It’s going to be fun. I’m expecting a playoff-type atmosphere. It’s why you play the game.”
—OLB Shawne Merriman speaks for the majority of Chargers defensive players when asked about their former coordinator, Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips.
“I love Wade,” Merriman said. “Love and respect.”
—Rivers isn’t sure how much of an advantage it is to face Phillips’ defense, one that he knows from when Phillips was in San Diego.
“The schemes are very similar in many ways; Wade was here for a handful of years,” Rivers said. “At the same time, there’s a similarity from the offensive side. Dallas runs a similar scheme offensively that we run so both teams will have a pretty good feel for one another. It’s all about going out there and executing and playing at a high level. This game is important to both teams and it will be a big one.”
—With LT Marcus McNeill ailing, veteran Jon Runyan could see some more playing time Sunday. He was in for about 10 snaps against the Browns, playing on the right side. Turner said he was pleased with what he saw as Runyan made his Chargers debut.
“He did fine,” Turner said. “I’m excited that we got Jon and I think he’s going to help us as we go through the next month. He’s a talented guy in terms of he’s got awfully long arms, he’s physically talented and he knows how to use them. His experience is outstanding.”
—The Chargers are doing a good job of keeping their eye on the prize on a weekly basis.
“I don’t even know who we have after Dallas, honestly,” Merriman said. “That’s how week-to-week we’re taking it. It’s really from week to week. One game is not bigger than the next. It’s cliche, but we’ve done a great job of taking it one game at a time and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”
BY THE NUMBERS: 1 — Number of sacks allowed in last three games by the Chargers.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “It’s going to be a pretty emotional day for me because you look at your career and the last time I was there, I was a rookie. Now I’m in my ninth year and the schedule says that I might not play there ever again so it will be special for me.” — RB LaDainian Tomlinson on returning to the Dallas area Sunday, not far from where he grew up.
STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL
The Chargers could very likely turn to their kids again Sunday, with numerous injuries — especially on the defense — forcing changes.
Look for Paul Oliver to start again at safety in place of Eric Weddle. But Oliver will be part of a rotation which will include Steve Gregory as well. Gregory will stay in the slot in the nickel package, where he has played well.
Rookie linebacker Larry English could be in the spotlight again if Shawne Merriman can’t go. And even if Merriman starts, he will be used cautiously as the Chargers try not to aggravate his foot injury with the playoffs looming.
That means even if English doesn’t start, he will see plenty of action and his play will be a key if the Cowboys, as expected, start flinging the ball around.
If the Chargers are to slow the high-flying Cowboys offense, those not very long in the tooth will have to play well.
PLAYER NOTES
—TE Antonio Gates is on pace for one of the better seasons of his remarkable career. He needs 296 receiving yards over the final four games to break ex-Charger Kellen Winslow’s tight ends record of 1,290 yards, set in 1980.
—QB Philip Rivers has thrown only six interceptions all season — with 21 touchdowns. For the second time this season, he has gone four games without an interception.
—RB LaDainian Tomlinson needs one more touchdown to extend his NFL-record streak of 10-touchdown seasons to nine — every year of his career.
—RB Mike Tolbert was the unlikely source of a 50-yard-plus passing play when he went 66 yards for a touchdown reception in Sunday’s win over the Browns. But the Chargers are making a habit of big plays, as they have nine receptions of 50 yards or more this season, which ties the Eagles for the league lead.
—OLB Shaun Phillips doesn’t get the publicity as teammate Shawne Merriman, but maybe he should. Phillips leads the Chargers with seven sacks and is tied for the league-lead with a career-best six forced fumbles.
GAME PLAN: Stay in the air.
If the Cowboys want to get into a shootout with the Chargers, have at it. The Chargers’ running game still isn’t where it should be, so their best approach to get after the Cowboys is to use their oversized wide receivers and lean on Antonio Gates — who is playing out of his mind — on the underneath stuff.
Yes, the Chargers need to get their running game on track at some point. But in this battle, with the Cowboys eager to show their offense takes a backseat to few teams, they figure to get after the Chargers secondary, which is missing a starter.
If so, the Chargers need to throw to keep pace — luckily for them, that is one of the things they do best.
MATCHUPS TO WATCH: Chargers run defense vs. Cowboys RBs Marion Barber and Felix Jones. The Chargers got punched in the mouth for 115 yards last week, and that was with the Browns missing Jamaal Lewis. And the Chargers could be banged up along the line again this week, with Luis Castillo and Alfonso Boone ailing. The Chargers are giving up nearly 118 yards per game and they figure to get plenty of running plays thrown at them Sunday. The Cowboys, rightly so, figure the best way to keep the ball away from the high-powered Chargers offense is to run the ball and eat the clock. In Barber, they have someone averaging 4.4 yards a carry, which is impressive; even more impressive is Jones checking in at 6.4 yards per carry, which includes a 56-yarder. In three of the Cowboys’ games this year, he has averaged more than 9.5 yards per carry.
Chargers pass coverage vs. Cowboys TE Jason Witten. For years the Chargers have made opposing tight ends famous — last week was no exception. Ever hear of Evan Moore? Didn’t think so, but despite playing in his first NFL game last week, the Browns tight end went for 80 yards on six catches. The Chargers will again be without safety Eric Weddle (ankle) and there is a chance OLB Shawne Merriman and DE Luis Castillo could be down. That could open the middle of the field considerably for Witten, who is coming off a sensational game. The Pro Bowler caught 14 passes for a career-high 156 yards in the loss to the Giants. With the Chargers’ consistent trouble in tracking tight ends, Witten could be in for a giant game again.
Chargers OLB Shaun Phillips vs. Cowboys OT Doug Free. Phillips has been on a tear of late, which is a tad surprising in that Shawne Merriman has played in only a handful of plays the last two games. Phillips helped turned the tide last week when he stripped Brady Quinn of the football, which was recovered by the Chargers. Free, who is filling in for starter Marco Colombo, figures to have his hands full with Phillips. Free is considered a better pass-blocker than a road-paver, and he’ll get a chance to prove that against Phillips.
INJURY IMPACT: LG Kris Dielman missed practice Wednesday because of a personal reason – he’s expected to play Sunday.
—DE Travis Johnson (groin) didn’t practice, as is his custom. He will play Sunday.
—WR Legedu Naanee (foot) didn’t practice and his status for Sunday is in doubt.
—C Nick Hardwick (ankle) didn’t work and will not play Sunday.
—OLB Shawne Merriman (foot) was a limited participant and he will play — but for how long is the question.
—DT Alfonso Boone (knee) was out and he could be down this week.
—S Eric Weddle (knee) is out for at least one more week.
—DE Luis Castillo (calf) practiced and is a go for Sunday after missing last week.
—LT Marcus McNeill (ankle) practiced and said he’s good for Sunday.
—OLB Shaun Phillips (calf), as is his custom, didn’t work but will play Sunday.
—CB Quentin Jammer (toe) worked and is fine.
—P Mike Scifres (groin) did all his work and is a go for Sunday.
Stadium Watch: SAN DIEGO (AP)—The San Diego Chargers said Thursday they probably need public money to build a new stadium on a downtown site just east of Petco Park.
The team has said since 2002 that it wants to finance stadium construction privately, although they have sought a piece of public land to develop and help pay for the stadium.
Previous sites under consideration would have accommodated both a stadium and a related development project, the profits from which would help pay for the costs of the stadium.
Chargers attorney Mark Fabiani said Thursday that because the downtown site is just bigger than 10 acres, it would accommodate just the stadium and no related development to help pay for the stadium.
That would require other sources of funding, in addition to $200 million from the Chargers and a hoped-for $100 million loan from the NFL, Fabiani said.
Fabiani said the team, which plays at aging Qualcomm Stadium in Mission Valley, wants to put any stadium measure onto a public ballot.
Fabiani said it’s too soon to say what other funding sources may be available. A redevelopment agency is sponsoring a financing study.
“Nonetheless, we believe it is important for everyone to understand that the downtown site might require some sort of taxpayer subsidy,” Fabiani said.
Such a subsidy would only be possible if voters agree that an investment downtown will result in significant returns for taxpayers elsewhere, he said. The city could save the $300 million or more taxpayers will pay through 2020 to maintain the Qualcomm Stadium, Fabiani said, and the city could sell, lease or otherwise generate hundreds of millions of dollars of revenue from the 166-acre Qualcomm site.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Chargers Team Report 12-8-09
Source: USA Today
The Chargers are riding high with seven straight wins, but there’s always something to complain about in the NFL.
One of the NFL’s hottest teams heads to Dallas on Sunday, but it does so still smarting from the injury bug.
The Chargers were hopeful of getting Pro Bowl center Nick Hardwick back for the Cowboys game. Hardwick hasn’t played since hurting his ankle in the season opener.
But coach Norv Turner said Monday that Hardwick suffered another setback in his rehab last week. Now it’s possible Hardwick could be out three more games, which would leave just the final contest and the playoffs.
If — and it’s a big if — all goes right.
Turner also didn’t rule Hardwick out for Sunday, but he did term it a long shot as Hardwick seeks additional medical opinions.
Outside linebacker Shawne Merriman was also hoping to return after missing the win in Cleveland. But his foot injury is such that Turner knows that he could be without his three-time Pro Bowl pass rusher.
Also on the fence is defensive end Luis Castillo. He was also hoping to find the field this week, but Turner wasn’t certain about his status either.
And there doesn’t appear to be any change in safety Eric Weddle’s status. He was tagged to miss two games with a sprained knee, and he’s halfway through that layoff after Sunday.
Still, most NFL teams would trade situations with the streaking Chargers — even if it does come with a limp.
NOTES, QUOTES
—Teammates and coaches were thrilled that running back Mike Tolbert got to race 66 yards for a touchdown reception two days after missing practice because of his grandmother’s death.
“It was great to get in the end zone,” he said. “It was a tremendous feeling, and I know she was there watching me. I can’t even explain it. It was such a great moment.”
Tolbert pointed toward the sky after crossing the goal line.
—The legendary Jim Brown was among those congratulating LaDainian Tomlinson in the Chargers’ locker room. Tomlinson passed Brown on Sunday to reach the No. 8 spot on the NFL’s all-time rushing list.
“After he’s reached the level of greatness he’s reached, how dare I not give him all the compliments I have in my heart,” Brown said.
Tomlinson was moved.
“It’s special,” he said. “It really is. As a kid playing football in the yard, I looked up to the great running backs, but a lot of days it was Jim Brown.”
—Wide receiver Vincent Jackson had two killer blocks that sprung teammates for touchdowns. “That’s something we as receivers take pride in,” he said. “Making blocks downfield is just what we do.”
STRATEGY AND PERSONNEL
PLAYER NOTES
—LT Marcus McNeill is ailing with a sprained ankle, but the Chargers are hopeful it isn’t serious. Look for his practice time to be monitored this week.
—DT Alfonso Boone could miss some practice this week with a bruised knee.
—OL Brandyn Dombrowski continues to prove his versatility when filling in for LT Marcus McNeill, flipping over from the right side.
—T Jon Runyan got his first playing time as a Charger, working at right guard when Brandyn Dombrowski moved over to the left side. Runyan was his usual physical self.
—ILB Brandon Siler continues to play well since moving into the starting lineup. Siler’s play has pushed Stephen Cooper to the weak side, while Siler is on the strong side.
—TE Antonio Gates had a career-best 167 receiving yards in the win as he continues his high level of play. Gates is fit, and it is showing.
REPORT CARD VS. BROWNS
PASSING OFFENSE: A — Philip River is in an amazing stretch in which his accuracy is off the charts, and he continues to take great care of the football. He was 18 of 25 for 373 yards and two scores. Again, the pass protection was super. The ball was spread around again, but it’s hard overlooking Antonio Gates and the 66-yard scoring reception by Mike Tolbert.
RUSHING OFFENSE: B-minus — There is still work to be done here, despite the legends LaDainian Tomlinson is leaving in the dust. The Chargers managed just four rushing first downs and couldn’t eclipse a 2.8-yard rushing average despite going against the Browns. A bit of a red flag continues to flap here.
PASS DEFENSE: C — Brady Quinn seemed to have his way too often. He threw for 271 yards and three touchdowns, which is usually a month’s worth of work. Of course, the Chargers were up by a considerable margin, which forced the soft coverages. The best part here was the rush from Shaun Phillips and Marques Harris — Phillips forced another fumble and collected another sack.
RUSH DEFENSE: C — Another week, another offense goes for more than 100 yards. Again, considering the quality of the opponent, more was expected from the run defense. This is another area that must be shored up moving forward.
SPECIAL TEAMS: B — Joshua Cribbs was held to 148 yards on six kick returns as the Chargers generally tried to keep the ball away from him. Not much went on with the Chargers return game. Nate Kaeding remained hot, as he clicked on three more field goals, including one from 42 yards out.
COACHING: A — Norv Turner continues to break out new pages from his playbook, as the Chargers are good for a new gadget play a week. He was also keen to build the lead and play it safe, saving the high-risk stuff for when he really needed it. This was a trap game, and while the Chargers stuck their toe in the trapper, they didn’t get caught. That’s big, especially on the road.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Chargers sign Harris and Jones
Source: Chargers.com
Former Chargers linebacker Marques Harris rejoined the team Tuesday, and the Chargers also added Derrick Jones to the practice squad.
The Chargers have signed linebacker Marques Harris. To make room for Harris, San Diego waived tackle
Harris (6-1, 245), began his career with the Chargers in 2005 as an undrafted free agent. Over four seasons (2005-08), Harris played in 56 games and recorded 75 tackles, eight sacks, three forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. He also was credited with 22 tackles on special teams.
Harris signed with the San Francisco 49ers in May 2009 and was released Oct. 27. He will wear No. 58 for the Chargers.
The Chargers also signed defensive end Derrick Jones to the practice squad. Jones, 6-4, 315 from Grand Valley State, originally came to the NFL in 2007 as an undrafted rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Atlanta Falcons signed him to their practice squad in Oct. 2007 and he was promoted to their active roster for the ’07 season finale. In Dec. 2008, Johnson was signed to Tennessee’s practice squad. He went to training camp with the Buffalo Bills in 2009 and was released before the regular season started. He spent three weeks on the Miami Dolphins’ practice squad in October.
To make room for Jones on the practice squad, the team waived linebacker Jeremy Leman.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Chargers "OWN" Broncos
San Diego Tribune— The smiles on their faces, their yells of defiance and the bounce in their step as they left the field revealed the importance of this beatdown.
The Chargers led from their first drive yesterday and routed the Denver Broncos 32-3 to take over what they believe is their rightful spot atop the AFC West.
"You'd love to say this is just another game, but it wasn't," linebacker Shawne Merriman said. "We were playing for first place in the division."
The Chargers, winners of five straight since Denver beat them Oct. 19 in San Diego, were at least a mile high as they considered their current roll and the significance of pummeling the plummeting Broncos.
"We had to re-establish ourselves this game as the first-place team in the AFC West," tight end Antonio Gates said. "That's why it was huge.
"The mental part was to prove to them we're still the AFC West champs. I think that was bigger than anything."
The Broncos (6-4) began the game running seven times. On their eighth play, quarterback Chris Simms dropped to pass, Chargers linebacker Shaun Phillips hit his hand from behind and knocked the ball to the ground, where safety Steve Gregory picked it up.
Starting at their 31-yard line, the Chargers (7-3) drove to a touchdown and a lead that was never in jeopardy even as they struggled to put the game away until the third quarter.
The Chargers are now 11-5 over the past four Novembers, with one more game to play before reaching the month in which they haven't lost since 2005.
"We fought back earlier this year, and we're playing our best ball," quarterback Philip Rivers said. "Hopefully, we can keep going that way through December as we have in the past."
Already, they believe they've re-acquired division ownership.
Said running back LaDainian Tomlinson: "I think we established that we're the best team in the AFC West this year."
Jay Cutler is gone. So maybe Josh McDaniels is the Bronco that San Diego will love to hate now.
The Chargers' locker room was abuzz yesterday, as players were both offended and amused by the Denver Broncos head coach telling the Chargers linebackers before yesterday's game, "We own you."
That, at least, was the version offered by the linebackers, to a man.
McDaniels, who slowed down to talk on his way to his car more than an hour after the game, said the Chargers started the trash talking. He would not elaborate on what he may have said, but neither did he deny he talked back.
"They talked to me first," McDaniels said. "I'm not making a story about this. If I did, I'd be able to tell you some things that aren't (fit) for papers."
The linebackers did not deny one or more among them may have started the dishing, but they thought McDaniels' behavior was beneath a man in his position.
"You gotta like his fire," Stephen Cooper said. "As a head coach I don't think you want to start jawing with players if you're not putting the pads on."
With a laugh, considering the Chargers' 32-3 victory, Cooper added, "Looks like he owned us, but it got repossessed."
A smiling Shawne Merriman said of McDaniels popping off: "It was cute."
Other Chargers said McDaniels directed his barb at Shaun Phillips. A source said it was Phillips who actually began the give and take.
"I'm not surprised," Phillips said of McDaniels talking. "He's a little cocky. ... It's all good, all fun and games. We didn't look too much into it. As a coach, I hope he has that mindset. But to say he owns us? I mean, you beat us one time. What has he really done in this league? He had a team 6-0, and now he's looking up at us from second place."
Clary gone?
The Chargers may have lost right tackle Jeromey Clary for the season after he was carted off the field in the fourth quarter with an injury to his left ankle.
Head coach Norv Turner said he believes the "injury is going to be more serious than I'd like it to be."
Brandyn Dombrowski replaced Clary and will be the likely fill-in, going forward, though the Chargers did sign signed tackle Corey Clark from the practice squad last week.
Dombrowski started two games in September at right guard and has been working at left tackle.
Clary left last week's game and did not practice last week with a sprained right ankle.
Blackout looms
Approximately 7,000 tickets remain for Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs, and it appears the Chargers' club record-tying streak of 44 games without a local television blackout is in danger of ending.
Said Jim Steeg, the Chargers' chief operating officer: "It will be very difficult to sell 7,000 tickets in three days with a holiday weekend starting on Wednesday."
The game must be declared a sellout by 1:05 p.m. Thursday to avert the blackout, although an extension is possible due to because of the Thanksgiving. holiday.
Playing it smart
LaDainian Tomlinson carried 20 times for 73 yards and a touchdown but was off the field in stretches, in part by design and in part due to because of the hip injury that continues to bother him.
"It's still bruised," said Tomlinson, who injured the hip Nov. 8 against New York. "Whenever I get hit or land it, I monitor it. But I don't think about it. ... I also want to stay fresh throughout the game like I used to do with Michael Turner, and (Darren Sproles) is doing a heck of a job. That's why I come out, so I can be fresh in the fourth quarter if we need to put the game away."
Big air
Nate Kaeding is not one of the league's big legs on kickoffs. In fact, there are 16 kickers in the NFL with more touchbacks than Kaeding since he came into the league in 2004.
But maybe if Kaeding kicked in the altitude in Denver every week ...
Kaeding had five touchbacks yesterday, bringing his career total in six games in Denver to 19, exactly half his career total.
To make it even easier on Kaeding, 15-yard penalties against the Broncos had him twice kicking off from the 45.
"I've made a living off getting touchbacks here," Kaeding said. "To give it to me on the 45 it was a gift for sure."
Nuts 'n' Bolts
* Defensive end Luis Castillo left the game in the second quarter with a calf injury and did not return.
* Cornerback Quentin Jammer left the game for a play after colliding with Phillips while defending a pass. Last week he was felled for a series by friendly fire, when he and Eric Weddle collided. Said Jammer: "The only time I get hurt, it's always one of my teammates hitting me."
* For the first time in 50 years of playing the Broncos, the Chargers have won in Denver for the third time in four years ... only an Ed Hochuli call from having won four straight.
* After 36 punts, Mike Scifres finally had one make it into reach the end zone for a touchback. That leaves Detroit's Nick Harris as the only punter in the league to have punted more than 30 times without a touchback.
* In starting 6-0, the Broncos outscored opponents 76-10 in the second half, including 17-3 at San Diego. But during their four-game losing streak they've been outscored 77-17 after halftime, including 17-3 yesterday.
* The Chargers scored a touchdown on their first possession for just the second time in 10 games and third time in the past 31 games.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Chargers Thundering Into Denver
SAN DIEGO — What a difference a month makes.
When the San Diego Chargers and Denver Broncos were last on the field together a month agoat Qualcomm Stadium, it appeared the AFC West race was all but settled.
The Broncos defeated the Chargers 34-23 on Monday Night Football to take a 3½-game lead in the division race. Denver left that game undefeated at 6-0, and the Chargers had fallen to 2-3.
But never say never with San Diego, which now owns the same 6-3 mark as Denver atop the AFC West.
"It's like déjà vu, isn't it?" Chargers tight end Antonio Gates says, referring to the showdown in Denver on Sunday. "It's like every time we play Denver, it means more than one game. We'll be fired up."
The reversal of fortunes for these teams smacks of the turn of events late last season, when the Broncos collapsed down the stretch and became the first team since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger to blow a three-game division lead with three games to play, allowing San Diego to claim the division crown.
That meltdown seemed so unlikely to be repeated. Denver, with a rebuilt defense and new coach Josh McDaniels, started 6-0.
Yet here we are again. A Broncos collapse has coincided with a Chargers rally. "It's resiliency," Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie says.
The Chargers seemingly thrive on beating such long odds. They entered December last season left for dead at 4-8. In 2007, during Norv Turner's first season as coach, they started 1-3 before winning the division and advancing to the AFC title game.
Now this.
"We've been in this situation before, so it's not anything new to us," linebacker Shawne Merriman says. "You hate to start off the season the way we start off sometimes, but when your back's against the wall, we've shown we can go out and perform."
Turner praises the character and talent he's working with, but maintains that the early season struggles in each of his campaigns were unique in each case.
Two years ago, he actually projected a slow start as the team was adjusting to a new staff and system. Last season, they started 0-2, losing on the final play against the Carolina Panthers in the opener and the following week falling victim to referee Ed Hochuli's erroneous ruling that an apparent fumble by Denver quarterback Jay Cutler in the final minute was an incompletion.
This time, Turner points to injuries as the key factor. Running back LaDainian Tomlinson, nose tackle Jamal Williams and center Nick Hardwick were among five players injured in the season-opening victory at the Oakland Raiders. Williams, anchor of the 3-4 front, was lost for the season with a torn triceps. Hardwick hasn't returned from an ankle injury.
Tomlinson missed two games with a sprained ankle, and Turner saw his performance in Sunday's 31-23 victory against the Philadelphia Eagles (24 rushes for 96 yards and two TDs) as a sign that he's healthy again.
"We were beat up and banged up," Turner says. "We played that first month with guys on the offensive and defensive lines who were just feeling their way and learning how to play in this league."
Merriman's gradual return to form, after missing virtually all of last season with torn knee ligaments, also has been a boost for the defense.
Says Turner: "Merriman is a lot healthier than he was in September. He and (linebacker) Shaun Phillips, the month they've had, they've been on a tear."
San Diego's defense was on the field for 71 snaps and allowed 462 yards against the Eagles, but three times forced them to settle for short field goals when backed up in the red zone. A week earlier, the unit kept the New York Giants from scoring a game-clinching touchdown late in the fourth quarter, forcing a field goal. That allowed quarterback Philip Rivers to lead a game-winning 80-yard drive in the final minutes that was capped with an 18-yard scoring pass to Vincent Jackson.
"Right now, we're on the cusp of being a good defense," inside linebacker Kevin Burnett says. "We can talk about being great later. If we can be consistent and then put together a string of victories — six, seven, eight in a row — then you can say we're a good defense."
The Chargers know all about winning streaks.
They won five in a row last season before an AFC divisional playoff loss at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Two seasons ago, they took an eight-game streak into the AFC title game. In 2006, they closed the regular season with a 10-game winning streak before a playoff-opening loss that cost Marty Schottenheimer his job as Turner's predecessor.
"We know how to rally," cornerback Quentin Jammer says. "When we put our minds to it, we know how to get it done as a team."
They'll soon get another chance to prove that to the Broncos.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Fuck Yaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Bolts' improving coaching staff
Wednesday, Jan 21, 2009
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com
The Chargers are down to two vacancies on their coaching staff after the team reached agreements with two more assistant coaches Wednesday.
Former All-Pro cornerback Cris Dishman, who spent the 2008 offseason with the Chargers through the NFL’s Minority Coaching Fellowship, will assist newly-hired secondary coach Steve Wilks.
Greg
Dishman played 13 seasons in the NFL and was named to two Pro Bowls. He began his career with the Houston Oilers, played for Chargers Head Coach Norv Turner with the Washington Redskins and played one season each with the Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings.
Since 2006, Dishman has been on the staff at
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Lets keep the Rivers flowin'!!
Posted: January 21, 2009
Sporting News staff reports
The Chargers want quarterback Philip Rivers to stay in San Diego.
Chargers general manager A.J. Smith told the San Diego Union-Tribune Tuesday that the team will begin negotiations with Rivers on a long-term contract very soon.
"You offer a contract and hope for the best," Smith said. "We'll have a contract (offer) and hope it's successful. If not, we have the franchise (tag)."
Rivers, 27, will play the final year of his current contract next season. In 2008, he threw for 4,009 yards and a team-record 34 touchdowns.
San Diego has several key players whose contracts expire in the next two years, including running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
The newspaper reports another reason San Diego feels the pressure to get Rivers signed to a deal and avoid having to use the franchise tag is the Chargers might want to use the franchise tag on Shawne Merriman in 2010.
City of San Diego suing the Chargers?
Source: Associated Press
SAN DIEGO (AP)—The city of San Diego expects to quickly settle a breach-of-contract suit it filed against the Chargers, which claims the team owes the city more than $170,000 for use of Qualcomm Stadium in 2004.
City attorney Jan Goldsmith, who was elected in November, said the suit was filed just days before the four-year statute of limitations expired. Goldsmith said the matter should have been handled years ago.
“The Chargers sent over a lot of information a long time ago and the city should have gone through it and talked about it,” Goldsmith said Wednesday. “We should have talked about this years ago. The fact that we didn’t, it’s not the end of the world. We’ll sit down, we’ll deal with it. We haven’t even served the complaint. It will be resolved, no doubt about it.”
According to the lawsuit, the team underpaid the city by $125,795 in 2004 as a result of the Chargers claiming skybox rent credits that were previously disallowed by the city for the 1996 through 2000 seasons. The city is also seeking more than $44,000 in accrued interest.
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