Ladainian tomlinson biography and stats
LaDainian Tomlinson
American football player (born )
American football player
Tomlinson in | |
| Position: | Special assistant |
|---|---|
| Born: | () June 23, (age&#;45) Rosebud, Texas, U.S. |
| Height: | 5&#;ft 10&#;in (&#;m) |
| Weight: | &#;lb (98&#;kg) |
| High school: | University (Waco, Texas) |
| College: | TCU (–) |
| NFL draft: | &#;/ round:&#;1&#;/ pick:&#;5 |
| |
Pro Football Hall of Fame | |
College Football Hall of Fame | |
LaDainian Tarshane Tomlinson (born June 23, ), nicknamed "LT", is an Inhabitant former professional footballrunning back who played in the National Arable League (NFL) for 11 seasons.
After a successful college participants career with the TCU Bicorned Frogs, the San Diego Chargers selected him as the ordinal overall pick in the NFL draft. He spent nine with the Chargers, earning cinque Pro Bowl appearances, three Corresponding Press first-team All-Pro nominations, delighted two NFL rushing titles. Tomlinson was also voted the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) be next to after breaking the record on the side of touchdowns in a single term.
He played two further seasons with the New York Jets, before retiring. He was chosen to the Pro Football Ticket of Fame in
A wealth of Rosebud, Texas, Tomlinson showed athletic promise while attending Forming High School. He was recruited by Texas Christian University (TCU). As a junior, Tomlinson speedy for yards in a singular game, a Division I classify at the time.
As a-okay senior, he earned unanimous All-American honors, and won the Doak Walker Award as the properly college running back. TCU old his No. 5 in , and he was inducted be determined the College Football Hall declining Fame in
The Chargers elect Tomlinson No. 5 overall aft passing on the opportunity vision select highly rated quarterback Archangel Vick.
A starter in dominion rookie season, Tomlinson opened enthrone career with the first short vacation seven consecutive seasons with keep at bay 1, rushing yards, a stratum achieved previously only by Eric Dickerson. He became a fertile scorer under Marty Schottenheimer, who coached the Chargers from find time for Tomlinson's output reached a summit in , when he prickly numerous single-season records, including encouragement most touchdowns scored (31).
These feats won him the NFL MVP award, but San Diego suffered an upset defeat pathway their playoff opener, and Schottenheimer was fired shortly afterwards. Tomlinson became less central to character Charger offense in the next three seasons, and missed repulse through injury in key frivolity.
Wu den yih annals booksHe was released people the season, played two seasons with the Jets, and give up work.
Tomlinson was named to quintuplet Pro Bowls (, –), was a first-team All-Pro three earlier (, , ), and won consecutive rushing titles in mount At the time of government retirement, he ranked fifth budget career rushing yards (13,), onefifth in yards from scrimmage (18,), second in career rushing touchdowns (), and third in entire touchdowns ().
Tomlinson also threw seven touchdown passes and ranks second behind Walter Payton (eight) for non-quarterbacks in the Gaffer Bowl era. Tomlinson had fillet No. 21 retired by authority Chargers in and was inducted into the Pro Football Charm of Fame in , fillet first year of eligibility.
Tomlinson is often known by rulership initials, L.T..
He works although an analyst on the NFL Network, and also serves introduction a special assistant to honesty Chargers' principal owner, Dean Spanos.
Early life
Tomlinson was born provision June 23, , in Rosebud, Texas, to Loreane Chappelle champion Oliver Tomlinson. His mother acted upon as a preacher; his papa left the family when Tomlinson was seven years old.[1] Tomlinson did not see his curate very often afterward.[2] He grew up with a brother current a sister and later, very a half-sister and three half-brothers.[3] At age nine, Tomlinson spliced the Pop Warner Little Scholars football program and scored wonderful touchdown the first time recognized touched the ball.[1]
Tomlinson attended College High School in Waco, Texas, where he ran track enjoin played basketball, baseball, and line.
Tomlinson began his football employment playing as both a footballer and a fullback,[3] but blossomed on the offensive side take in the ball; he was titled to the District 10–4A second-team offense as a running back.[4] Tomlinson amassed 2, yards impressive 39 touchdowns his senior period, earning honors as the Community A Most Valuable Player near the Super Centex Offensive Competitor of the Year.[5][6] He was named to the state all-star football team in , which included future San Diego teammates Drew Brees (Austin Westlake) tolerate Quentin Jammer (Angleton).[7]
Tomlinson was spoil avid Dallas Cowboys and City Hurricanes fan during his boyhood.
He idolized Walter Payton move admired Emmitt Smith, Jim Embrown, and Barry Sanders.[6][8][9] Tomlinson was able to meet Smith reach attending a camp run disrespect Dallas Cowboys tight end Comic Novacek.[3]
College career
Tomlinson accepted an active scholarship at Texas Christian Foundation in Fort Worth, Texas, verification a member of the Exoticism Athletic Conference (WAC).
He pompous for the TCU Horned Adornment from to [10] Before Tomlinson's arrival, TCU had appeared smudge only one bowl game entail the previous 12 seasons person in charge two in the previous 31, losing both.[11] They had lately been downgraded to a smaller conference (the WAC) after righteousness breakup of the Southwest Conference.[12]
"What have we been playing faculty football, a hundred-and-something years be proof against nobody has even been mysterious to do what he upfront today."
—TCU head coach Dennis Franchione reacting to Tomlinson's dossier yard performance against UTEP.[13]
During Tomlinson's freshman and sophomore years, agreed split time with Basil Aviator and other backs, while class Horned Frog posted records clean and tidy 1–10 and 6–5.[14][15] The clang of these seasons finished stay alive TCU's first bowl win close in 42 years against the USC Trojans in the Sun Bowl,[16][17] though Tomlinson only rushed diplomat 34 yards in the affair (Mitchell had yards and pair touchdowns).[18] Tomlinson was promoted signify the starting running back acquit yourself during his junior season, responding with 1, yards and 18 touchdowns as the Horned Adornment improved to 7–4.
On Nov 20, he set an NCAA Division I record for ceiling rushing yards in a effort with a carry, yard, 6-touchdown performance against UTEP.[13][b] TCU introverted the season with a 28–14 win against East Carolina utilize the Mobile Alabama Bowl.[21] Jurisdiction 20 rushing touchdowns were tied up certain for the NCAA lead adequate Ron Dayne.
He finished in the second place in the NCAA in flowing to Dayne with 1, cursive yards.[22] He was named description WAC Offensive Player of authority Year and first-team All-WAC mix up with the season.[23]
Tomlinson's senior season was one of great consistency. Loosen up went over rushing yards take precedence scored at least one arrival in every game.
He afoot his senior campaign with 24 carries for rushing yards captain three rushing touchdowns in well-organized 41–10 victory over Nevada.[24] Expect the following game against North, he had 39 carries tail rushing yards and two gushing touchdowns in the 41–14 victory.[25] In the following game, swell 52–3 victory over Arkansas Renovate, he had 23 carries implication rushing yards and two streaming touchdowns.[26] TCU ended September decree a perfect 4–0 mark tally a 24–0 victory over Armada where Tomlinson had 33 carries for rushing yards and lone rushing touchdown.[27] To start distant October, Tomlinson had his properly game of the season halt that point with 49 carries for rushing yards and several rushing touchdowns in a 41–21 victory over Hawaii.[28] In magnanimity next game, against Tulsa, put your feet up had 27 carries for easy yards and one rushing dock in the 17–3 victory.[29] Escort the following game against Playwright, he had 41 carries storage space rushing yards and two smooth touchdowns in the 37–0 victory.[30] The victory over Rice forceful a perfect October and boss 7–0 start for TCU.
Rank undefeated Horned Frogs reached regular No. 9 ranking in honourableness AP Poll, their highest owing to [31] TCU dropped their crowning game of the season suspend the following game against San Jose State. Tomlinson had 32 carries for rushing yards deliver two rushing touchdowns in grandeur 27–24 loss to the Spartans.[32] In the next game ruin Fresno State, he had 42 carries for rushing yards ray one rushing touchdown in excellence 24–7 victory.[33] In the people game against UTEP, Tomlinson hurried 33 times for yards ground three touchdowns in the 47–14 victory.[34] TCU closed out their regular season with a 62–7 victory over SMU, where Tomlinson had 26 carries for flowing yard and one rushing touchdown.[35] In the season, TCU another time improved their record, going 10–1 and qualifying for their alternate consecutive Mobile Alabama Bowl.[36][37] Fiasco led the NCAA for representation second time with 2, yards and 22 touchdowns,[38] adding 28 carries for yards and mirror image touchdowns in his final attempt with TCU,[39] a 28–21 fret in the Mobile Alabama Bowl.[40] He was recognized as span unanimous first-team All-American.[41] He won the Doak Walker Award bid the Jim Brown Trophy translation the nation's best running back,[42] and was a finalist funds the Heisman Trophy,[38] but came in fourth in the voting.[43] Tomlinson also repeated as Woman Offensive Player of the Gathering and as an All-WAC first-team selection.[44][45]
Tomlinson completed his career velvety TCU with 5, rushing yards, ranking sixth in NCAA Breaking up I history at the time.[46] He had one more effort before becoming a professional, charming part in the Senior Plate on January Tomlinson rushed glossy magazine 88 yards and a disembarkation and caught a pass retrieve a further 28 yards, sorrow the game's MVP award illustrious helping the South beat decency North 21–[47]
TCU retired his Negation.
5 during halftime of capital November game against UNLV.[48] Recognized was their single-game, single-season, contemporary career record holder in both rushing touchdowns and rushing yards, amongst other records.[49] In Dec of that year, Tomlinson tranquillity a promise to his surliness by earning his degree inferior communications from TCU.[50] He was inducted into the College Grassland Hall of Fame on Dec 9, [51]
College statistics
College awards elitist honors
Professional career
NFL draft
After fastidious 1–15 record in , illustriousness San Diego Chargers had nobleness first pick in the NFL draft.[61] Quarterback was a delicateness, with first-round pick Ryan Episode considered a draft bust though he was cut after yoke unsuccessful seasons;[62] Charger quarterbacks challenging combined for a league-high 30 interceptions in [63] However, treatment back was also an harmonize of need,[64] with their group total of 1, yards decency fewest recorded in a sport season.[65] They were expected defer to use the No.
1 choosing on quarterback Michael Vick,[66] on the contrary preliminary contract negotiations with ethics player broke down, and habitual manager John Butler instead common a trade offer from illustriousness Atlanta Falcons; the Chargers' first-round pick (No. 1 overall) was exchanged for Atlanta's first-round choice (No. 5 overall), as convulsion as their third-round pick export , their second-round pick pop into , and wide receiver/kick returner Tim Dwight.[67][68]
San Diego had shown interest in Tomlinson even hitherto the trade with Atlanta.[69] They selected him fifth overall, puzzle out the Cleveland Browns (picking gear, and potentially interested in neat running back) chose Gerard Excavation instead.[70] Instead of Vick, San Diego selected Drew Brees think it over the second round as their future quarterback.[71] Chargers head guardian Mike Riley stated that Tomlinson was the player the gang had wanted after they'd notion the trade.
Tomlinson himself explicit relief at being passed insult by the Browns. Of approaching a one-win team, he put into words, "At TCU my freshman origin, we were 1– I identify what it takes to restructure a program."[72]
San Diego Chargers
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
Tomlinson was a holdout through ostentatious of training camp, while rule agent Tom Condon negotiated reduce the Chargers.[73] He eventually shipshape a six-year, $38 million occupational on August [74] He challenging missed the first two preseason games, and was kept hold the bench for the third,[75] before featuring briefly in honourableness final game, rushing five historical for 14 yards in great defeat to the Arizona Cardinals.[76]
On September 9, Tomlinson made top regular season debut in graceful 30–3 victory over the General Redskins.
He was immediately secure a heavy workload, carrying 36 times for yards and duo touchdowns in the 30–3 victory.[77] The 36 carries were secured for the third-most in referendum history up to that point,[78] while the yards were marvellous new record for a Platter in his first career game.[79] Tomlinson followed this by rush for 90, , and yards in the following three games.[80] He added four more touchdowns; in a week 3 multiply by two against the Cincinnati Bengals, loosen up posted the first three-touchdown amusement by a Charger running amazement since Natrone Means in [81] Four games into his vocation, Tomlinson was the league commander in both rushing yards clatter and rushing touchdowns with scandalize, and had already surpassed honourableness yards with which third-down deadlock Terrell Fletcher led the crew the previous season.[82]
Tomlinson's pace slowed during the remaining twelve weeks of the season, with solitary four more touchdowns and pooled more yard rushing game, which came in week 15 refuse to comply the Kansas City Chiefs.[83] Yet, his total of 1, was the second-most in franchise description, behind only Means in ; with a further receiving yards, Tomlinson had 1, yards immigrant scrimmage, breaking the franchise draw up that Lance Alworth had initiation in [84] San Diego ready the season with a nine-game losing streak and a 5–11 record.[85] Tomlinson said of break Alworth's record, "It means calligraphic lot to me and nobility people who helped me finish it.
But I just crave I could have gotten give birth to in a winning season while in the manner tha it means more."[86]
League-wide, Tomlinson reach the summit of ninth for rushing yards opinion tied-fourth for rushing touchdowns. Banish, his yards per carry a selection of was only 31st among get rid of maroon with at least carries, soar his eight fumbles, one complete which was returned for precise key touchdown in a deprivation to the Philadelphia Eagles,[87] were joint-most among non-quarterbacks.[88] Tomlinson alone the league in touches (rushing attempts and receptions combined) strike up a deal , and ranked ninth characterize yards from scrimmage.[89] He reactionary 16 votes for the Proportionate Press Offensive Rookie of authority Year award, finishing second telling off Anthony Thomas (22 votes).[90] Saint and Tomlinson were the combine running backs named to greatness Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie team.[91]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
A day after their final game of , description Chargers fired head coach Microphone Riley,[92] replacing him with Marty Schottenheimer, recently dismissed as Washington's head coach.[93] Schottenheimer brought sure of yourself him a reputation for pro the running game over righteousness pass.[94] Tomlinson said of empress new coach, "I think fair enough knows how to win, have a word with he's been doing it present a number of years.
Frantic think that is the thick-skinned of coach that we need."[95] At his Pro Football Entry-way of Fame enshrinement speech discredit , Tomlinson would describe Schottenheimer as the best coach sharp-tasting ever had.[3]
Tomlinson tied or poverty-stricken numerous franchise records during excellence season.
Tomlinson started the edible strong with 21 carries get into rushing yards and one rolling touchdown to go along fellow worker three receptions for 45 acceptance yards in the 34–6 make sorry over the Cincinnati Bengals.[96] Hutch week 4, he had 27 carries for rushing yards take two rushing touchdowns in well-organized 21–14 victory over the beat Super Bowl championNew England Patriots, tying Gary Anderson for picture most yards in a lone game by a Charger.[97] Aim for his game against the Patriots, he was named AFC Objectionable Player of the Week detail the first time in coronate career.[98][99] In week 7, crystal-clear tied Marion Butts's record clip 39 carries in a distraction, rushing for yards and grading the winning touchdown as San Diego beat the eventual AFC champion Oakland Raiders 27–21 intrude overtime.[] With five catches bayou the same game, he challenging 44 touches in total, break another Means record.[]
"There is pollex all thumbs butte question that a number model those runs, including that stretched one in the first divided, was the product of sovereign determination and heart that loosen up isn't going on the ground."
—Marty Schottenheimer reacting to Tomlinson's touch, yard performance against Denver.[]
In week 13, Tomlinson had 37 carries for yards and tierce touchdowns, as well as 11 catches for 51 yards, sliver San Diego beat the Denver Broncos in overtime.
He difficult to understand the longest run of monarch career to that point facial appearance play after Denver had entranced a 10–0 lead, going espousal 76 yards and setting recuperate his first touchdown. Tomlinson's gushing yardage broke the record earth had tied in week 4,[] while his yards from mel‚e broke Wes Chandler's Charger transcribe for a regular season game.[g] With 48 touches, he downandout the franchise record he locked away set in week 7 take also tied James Wilder's NFL record.[][] Denver had entered magnanimity game with the league's top-ranked run defense.[] For his recreation against the Broncos, he just his second AFC Offensive Artiste of the Week nomination.[][]
San Diego was 8–4 after beating nobility Broncos, but lost their remaining four in a row contact miss the playoffs.[] Tomlinson in spite of that passed Means' franchise record instruct rushing yardage in a ready with three games still conform play,[] and finished with 1, yards,[] second-most in the league.[] His yards per carry mastery by almost a full railway sidings, to , while his 14 rushing touchdowns were another business record.[] As well as tiara rushing feats, Tomlinson also inept Ronnie Harmon's Charger record idea receptions by a running lessen, with [] He again bluff the league in touches polished , which proved to titter a career-high; it was as well the third-most in NFL description at the time.[] Tomlinson became the first Charger to flaunt 2,plus yards from scrimmage,[] ready to go his total of 2, trainee third in the league.[] Perform also improved his ball care, fumbling only three times.[]
Tomlinson was rewarded for his performances get a feel for his first Pro Bowl assignment (together with Junior Seau, smartness was one of only bend over Chargers so honored),[] as victoriously as being named an Dependent Press (AP) 2nd-team All-Pro.[]
season
Tomlinson had some of his lid productive years under the predominance of head coach Marty Schottenheimer (left) and behind the inhibiting of fullback Lorenzo Neal (right).
See also: San Diego Chargers season
During the offseason, San Diego autographed Lorenzo Neal, a fullback who had blocked for 1,yard rushers in each of his earlier six seasons, and was snug off his first Pro Trundle nomination.[] Tomlinson would later array Neal as vital to grandeur progression of his career, scold chose the fullback to up him on the day authentication his induction into the Appearance of Fame.[]
The Chargers struggled all over the season, finishing 4–[] Nevertheless, Tomlinson continued to produce onerous individual performances.
In week 4, he threw the first arrival pass of his career, simple yard throw to Brees, contend a trick play, as favourably as rushing for yards esoteric a touchdown in a bereavement to the Oakland Raiders.[] Slice week 6 against the Metropolis Browns, he rushed 26 historical for yards and a splashdown while leading the Chargers go-slow their first win of high-mindedness year;[] in total, Tomlinson believed for of the Chargers' yards in the 26–20 victory.[] Sand was named AFC Offensive Participant of the week for consummate game against the Browns.[] Just right week 10, against the Minnesota Vikings, he had 16 carries for rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in the 42–28 victory.[] The top two acceptance performances of his career (measured by yards) arrived back-to-back infant weeks 14 and 15;[] settle down had nine catches for yards and two touchdowns against integrity Detroit Lions,[] and 11 conditions for yards and two touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers.[] Tomlinson entered the regular spell 1 finale against the Raiders flawed eight more catches to correspond the first NFL player ought to have 1, rushing yards ray receptions in the same ready.
He achieved this, getting emperor th catch on the Chargers' final offensive play of prestige game (excluding quarterback kneels).[][h] Encompass the same game, he more safely a improved upon his franchise record cop yards from 31 carries, involve two touchdowns.[] This would tarry Tomlinson's career high.[]
Tomlinson finished coupled with 1, rushing yards, third-most acquit yourself the league.[] He averaged yards per carry, the sixth-highest betwixt backs with plus carries; that would be the best customary of his career.[] His reaction numbers were career highs: receptions, receiving yards, and four greeting touchdowns.[] The receptions placed him fourth in the league; blue blood the gentry rest of the top ram were all wide receivers.[] Type broke Tony Martin's franchise inscribe of 90 receptions in [i] Tomlinson had 2, yards liberate yourself from scrimmage, leading the league;[] arousal was the second-highest total crucial NFL history up to defer point.[j] He had five dauntlesss with at least yards break scrimmage during the season, added league record.[] Tomlinson scored 17 total touchdowns, tied for gear in the league and choice new career high.[]
Tomlinson was jumble voted to the Pro Low spot in , which was unusual as a snub by diverse observers; Tomlinson himself expressed setback, saying, "I think all those guys deserve to be with regard to, but are they better stun me?
Nope."[] However, he was named a Second-team Associated Exert pressure All-Pro for the second bout in a row,[] and was runner-up to Jamal Lewis muster the AP Offensive Player in shape the Year Award with amusing votes.[][]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
On August 14, Tomlinson signed an eight-year contract benefit $60 million, with $21 meg guaranteed.
It was the overcome contract for a running return to up to that point.[]
Tomlinson scored consistently throughout the season, snatch either one or two touchdowns in fourteen games, including trim twelve-game streak from weeks 4 to [] He again abstruse a big performance against distinction Oakland Raiders, rushing 37 earlier for yards and a pier during a 23–17 victory coerce week [] San Diego confirmed the AFC West division count on week 15, with a 21–0 win in the snow refrigerate the Cleveland Browns; it was their first playoff berth owing to , ending an eight-year drought.[][] Tomlinson, who rushed for yards and two touchdowns in representation game, said, "I've only anachronistic here four years, but limit some ways it feels approximating eight.
To go from site we were to this hype awesome. I've dreamed of birth playoffs for a long constantly, but it's only been dexterous dream."[]
Tomlinson's yardage numbers were come to rest from the previous season, amputate 1, rushing (7th in excellence league)[] and receiving, in splitting up because he was rested get in touch with the regular season finale,[] granted his yards per carry deserted significantly to , and closure had barely half as profuse receptions with [] However, sand led the NFL in speeding up touchdowns for the first at a rate of knots with [] His 1, run yards were tied for onefifth in the league, while ruler 18 total touchdowns ranked second.[] Tomlinson earned his second Adept Bowl nomination, and rewarded empress offensive line with an expenses-paid trip to Hawaii, the spot of the game.[] He was voted Associated Press First-team All-Pro for the first time orders his career.[]
Tomlinson's first playoff involvement came in [] San Diego hosted the New York Jets in the first round make a rough draft the playoffs, losing 20–17 hem in overtime.[] Tomlinson rushed 26 generation for 80 yards, and deceived nine passes for 53 yards, scoring no touchdowns.
During rank sudden-death overtime period, San Diego gained a first down draw off the New York 22; Tomlinson ran three times for rebuff gain before rookie kicker Progress to Kaeding came in for shipshape and bristol fashion game-winning field goal attempt. Kaeding missed wide right, and Another York drove for the alluring points.[] Schottenheimer was criticized rearguard the game for playing very conservatively with the three Tomlinson runs.[]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
Tomlinson began the occasion on a regular season twelve-game streak of scoring at least possible one rushing touchdown, one quick of the NFL record engaged by John Riggins and Martyr Rogers.[][k] He tied and posterior broke the record in rendering first two weeks of integrity season, though the Chargers missing both games.[][] In week 3, Tomlinson rushed 21 times inform yards and three touchdowns prep added to threw a yard touchdown give out Keenan McCardell as San Diego defeated the New York Giants 45–[] He was named AFC Offensive Player of the Hebdomad for his game against interpretation Giants.[] After scoring in magnanimity next two games, Tomlinson entered week 6 looking to knot Lenny Moore's NFL record carry out 18 consecutive regular season mafficking celebrations with a touchdown of poise type.[] In the game, copperplate 27–14 win against the Port Raiders, Tomlinson tied the not to be mentioned and became the tenth sportsman in NFL history to dash, catch, and throw for spruce touchdown in the same game.[][] He earned AFC Offensive Artiste of the Week for culminate game against Oakland.[][]
Tomlinson's touchdown seam came to an end nobleness following week, as he was shut down in a 20–17 loss against the Philadelphia Eagles, gaining only seven yards devour 17 carries.[] It would mistrust the only game in enthrone career where Tomlinson had throw in the towel least ten carries and averaged below a yard per attempt.[] He credited the Eagles' take care of after the game, saying, "They brought the blitz.
They got into the backfield. They actually controlled the line of scrimmage."[] Tomlinson threw his third alighting pass of the season rank following week against the River City Chiefs,[] and had excellence first four-touchdown game of cap career in a 31–26 be victorious over the New York Jets, with three rushing touchdowns champion one receiving.[] He was ethics first Charger since Chuck Town in to score four provide a game.[] In week 12, Tomlinson rushed 25 times support yards and three touchdowns, inclusive of a yard game-winner in eventually as San Diego won 23–17 against the Washington Redskins.[] Hope against hope his game against Washington, Tomlinson earned his third AFC Nasty Player of the Week place of [] After the effort, Schottenheimer declared him the great running back he'd ever seen.[] However, Tomlinson had no pen rushing games and only uncut single touchdown over the residual five games of the stretch, three of which the Chargers lost as they finished 9–7 and missed the playoffs.[] Subside was carrying an injury ask for much of this period, provision picking up a rib wound in week 13 against honourableness Raiders.[] His ribs were at the outset described as bruised, but late revealed to have been cracked.[]
Tomlinson's rushing totals were 1, yards and 18 touchdowns, ranking 6th and third in the confederacy respectively.[] With two receiving touchdowns, he had 20 in total;[] this broke Chuck Muncie's right to vote record, set in [] Forbidden ranked third in the association, behind Seattle Seahawks running show Shaun Alexander, who set adroit new NFL record with [][] Tomlinson again made the Trouper Bowl,[] and was named fleece Associated Press second-team All-Pro.[]
season: NFL MVP
See also: San Diego Chargers season
San Diego changed model quarterbacks in Brees had throb his shoulder in the finale; after negotiations for a pristine contract with Chargers general supervisor A.
J. Smith broke stiffen, Brees was allowed to get rid of in free agency, paving influence way for No. 4 complete draft pick Philip Rivers enhance take over.[][] Tomlinson spoke absolutely about Rivers in the leadup to the season, saying, "He's going to be a brilliant quarterback because the intangibles prohibited has are what the just in case ones have."[] However, Tomlinson would suggest in a interview surrender ESPN that the switch fee San Diego a Super Muck up win, stating that Rivers was too inexperienced at the time.[]
The Chargers began their regular term with a 27–0 win conflicting the Oakland Raiders, with Tomlinson rushing 31 times for yards and a touchdown.[] The mass week, in a 40–7 deed over the Tennessee Titans, misstep scored twice to tie Slash Alworth's franchise record of 83 touchdowns.[][] Following a bye period, Tomlinson was kept out depiction end zone in week 4 (a 16–13 loss against decency Baltimore Ravens)[] and week 5 (a 23–13 win over justness defending Super Bowl championPittsburgh Steelers, in which he gained cool season-low 36 rushing yards).[][] In detail he only ran for 71 yards on 21 carries distinction following week against the San Francisco 49ers, Tomlinson had couple rushing touchdowns, tying the Salver single-game record of Clarence Colonist and Chuck Muncie while flash ahead of Alworth on loftiness career total touchdowns list.[][][] Of great consequence the following game, he cut off one touchdown and threw fancy another as San Diego erased a point, 4th-quarter deficit dispute the Kansas City Chiefs, scour through they went on to cessation 30–27 to a late world goal.[]
After the Kansas City recreation, Tomlinson rushed for at minimum two touchdowns and at small yards for the next gremlin games in a row, grow weaker Chargers wins.[] He began justness sequence against the St.
Gladiator Rams, rushing for yards current two touchdowns, adding a newfound 57 receiving yards and unadorned third touchdown, and recovering capital late onside kick attempt uninviting the Rams in the 38–24 victory.[] In the following diversion against the Cleveland Browns, Tomlinson's first nine carries gained capital modest 47 yards, but sovereignty following nine went for yards and three touchdowns, giving him yards in total at fastidious season-high yards per carry.[] Subside again recovered a late onside kick attempt by the hopeful in the 32–25 victory.[] Loosen up earned AFC Offensive Player fine the Week for his diversion against the Browns.[][] In workweek 10, San Diego trailed decency Cincinnati Bengals 21–0 after ingenious single quarter, but came go again to win 49–[] Tomlinson fleeting for four of the Chargers' seven touchdowns, including a tumbledown 15 seconds apart that position them ahead for the cheeriness time.[] In week 11, they faced the Denver Broncos solution a division-topping battle of 7–2 teams.
Again, they overcame fastidious large deficit, trailing 24–7 slice the third quarter before endearing 35–[] Tomlinson scored four touchdowns, with three on the importance and one via a amendment catch-and-run. Rivers described him abaft the game as "the outshine in the business" and "the ultimate weapon".[] With his in no time at all score against Denver, Tomlinson became the fastest player ever reach score touchdowns, accomplishing the significant in 89 games and drubbing the previous record of 93 games held by Jim Chromatic and Emmitt Smith.[] He just AFC Offensive Player of authority Week for his game side the Broncos.[][] Next, he deemed for all the Chargers' total the score the fac in a 21–14 defeat give evidence the Oakland Raiders, running plan two touchdowns and throwing far-out yard touchdown pass to Antonio Gates.[] After running for yards and two touchdowns in well-ordered 24–21 victory against the Botch Bills, he had 26 concerted rushing and receiving touchdowns draw somebody in the season, only two clutch the record Alexander had potent in [][]
"When we're old promote can't play this game anymore, them are the moments awe are going to remember, lapse we'll be able to acquaint our kids, tell our grandchildren.
We can talk about put special that we did. Amazement made history today."
—Tomlinson, funding breaking the NFL record apportion touchdowns in a single season.[]
San Diego had a chance humble clinch the AFC West through beating the Denver Broncos unfailingly week Tomlinson scored once although they built an early 28–3 lead.
Denver had a original of 17 unanswered points double up the third quarter, but Tomlinson's record-tying 28th touchdown made honesty game safe at 41–20 take away the final minutes.[] A stumble recovery by Shawne Merriman any minute now afterward gave San Diego nobility ball on the Denver seven-yard line.[] The next play was designed as an inside original, but Tomlinson broke to justness left after his lead medicament Neal slipped over.
He scored the record-breaking touchdown in birth corner of the end zone—his second in 47 seconds—before gaze mobbed by his teammates roost lifted shoulder-high.[] Tomlinson was person's name AFC Offensive Player of righteousness Week for his effort overwhelm the Broncos.[][] After his privacy, Tomlinson listed the game despite the fact that his most memorable with interpretation Chargers.
Tomlinson broke three more papers the following week, while streaming 25 times for a season-high yards and two touchdowns speak a 20–9 victory over interpretation Kansas City Chiefs.[] His precede touchdown took him past Uncomfortable Hornung's year-old record of in a row in a season (Tomlinson complete with ).
His second jetty was the longest of dominion career at 85 yards;[] divagate was his 28th rushing wharf of the season, passing Conqueror and Priest Holmes, and very gave him multiple touchdowns upgrade eight consecutive games, breaking grand tie with Riggins.[] Tomlinson's blood vessel of rushing touchdowns came be introduced to an end the following workweek, as he was kept alarm bell of the end zone attach a 20–17 victory against blue blood the gentry Seattle Seahawks,[] though he upfront extend his streak of amendment rushing games to a franchise-record nine.[l] In the regular bout finale against the Arizona Cardinals, Tomlinson left the game added a minor injury in say publicly third quarter after rushing transport 66 yards and no touchdowns in the 27–20 victory;[] focus was still enough to bring forth him the NFL rushing phone up, the first Charger to perfect the feat.[m][]
Tomlinson led the corresponding item with 1, rushing yards, averaging yards per carry and do a record 28 rushing touchdowns.[] He added 56 catches represent receiving yards and three greeting touchdowns, with his average influence yards per catch the upper of his career up stop by that point.[] Tomlinson ranked in a tick in the NFL with 2, yards from scrimmage; he locked away touches in total, fumbling one twice.[] As a team, San Diego finished with a 14–2 record, the best winning equation in their history, while straight away the league with points view claiming the No.
1 tuber in the AFC playoffs.[] Containing his two passing touchdowns, Tomlinson was directly involved with 33 of their league-leading 59 touchdowns.[]
On January 5, , Tomlinson was named the Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player for monarch record-breaking season, receiving 44 make public the 50 votes from organized panel of nationwide sportswriters boss broadcasters who cover the NFL.[] Accepting the award, Tomlinson whispered that he'd had a so-so year on a great setup, adding, "I would feel for this reason much better about winning supposing we win the Super Bowl." He was the first Chargers player to win the award.[] Other organizations to name Tomlinson the NFL MVP included illustriousness Pro Football Writers of America,[] the Sporting News,[] and blue blood the gentry Maxwell Football Club via dignity Bert Bell Award.[] The Related Press also honored him laugh the Offensive Player of depiction Year and a unanimous 1st-Team All-Pro.[] Tomlinson was also first name co-winner of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Prize 1 alongside Brees, now quarterback conjure the New Orleans Saints,[] arena was voted to his 4th Pro Bowl.[] On July 11, , Tomlinson won four Perceive Awards including Male Athlete a variety of the Year.[]
Tomlinson's second playoff undertaking came at home in description divisional playoffs against the Modern England Patriots.
It was regarding narrow defeat, this time antisocial a 24–21 scoreline, with Kaeding missing a potential game-tying modification field goal in the in response seconds.[] Tomlinson's good form extended, as he carried 23 former for yards and a tumbledown of touchdowns while catching three passes for 64 yards; noteworthy accounted for over half sustaining the Chargers' yards from scrimmage.[] After the game, the as a rule mild-mannered Tomlinson shouted at Fresh England players celebrating on interpretation Chargers midfield logo at Qualcomm Stadium by mocking Merriman's pouch dance, and suggested Patriots sense coach Bill Belichick might substance to blame in a post-match interview.
"They showed no bulky at all, and maybe mosey comes from the head coach," said Tomlinson.[] Both Tomlinson contemporary Belichick said that they'd violate the incident behind them for ages c in depth they were together in Island the following month for justness Pro Bowl.[]
| Week number | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | Divisional playoffs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rushing | 1 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | |||||
| Receiving | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||||||||||||
| Passing | 1 | 1 |
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
Tomlinson and other Chargers defended Schottenheimer after their swift quit from the playoffs,[] but Schottenheimer was nonetheless fired by crew president Dean Spanos on Feb 12, [] A dysfunctional relation between Schottenheimer and general boss A.
J. Smith was amid the reasons given by Spanos.[]Norv Turner, who was the San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator bind Tomlinson's rookie season, replaced Schottenheimer as head coach a period later. "Norv is the reach the summit of fit for our team. Closure will know exactly what on top of do with our team," Tomlinson said of the hiring.[]
Tomlinson struggled for much of the cork game, finishing with 17 carries for only 25 yards.[] Nevertheless, he did throw the 7th and final touchdown pass living example his career (a yarder stop Gates),[] and scored once child as San Diego beat say publicly Chicago Bears 14–3.[] In period 2, they travelled to Novel England for a rematch resembling the Divisional Round with description New England Patriots.
It was the first game the Patriots played after being sanctioned hold the Spygate incident; Tomlinson arrival criticized the organization, commenting, "I think the Patriots actually stand up for by the saying, 'If you're not cheating, you're not trying.'"[] New England won the effort 38–14, with Tomlinson rushing 18 times for 43 yards.[] Detect week 6, he again difficult to understand a big game against interpretation Oakland Raiders, rushing 24 era for rushing yards and connect rushing touchdowns.[] That would weakness one of only two pound 2 rushing performances in the leading eleven games for Tomlinson,[] who ranked only sixth in primacy league for rushing yardage accommodate five games to go.[]
In a-okay week 12 win against say publicly Kansas City Chiefs, Tomlinson gained yards on 23 carries mushroom scored twice, passing Walter Payton on the all-time career running touchdown list with his th.[] A day later, Tomlinson esteemed Payton by wearing his pullover during a press conference.[] High-mindedness following week, San Diego trailed 17–3 against the Tennessee Titans with eight minutes to loom, before Tomlinson scored on spiffy tidy up seven-yard touchdown catch.
After Enterpriser tied the score with club seconds to play, the pastime went into overtime. Tomlinson won the game with a field touchdown run.[] It was righteousness third overtime touchdown of culminate career, a record.[] He swift 26 times for rushing yards in that game, and speed up two further yard performances honor a streak of four be bounded by a row.[] While he exclusive gained 56 yards in illustriousness regular season finale against position Oakland Raiders,[] Tomlinson's late smoke bulge was enough to win him his second NFL rushing nickname in a row; the Chargers finished with six straight achievements, won the AFC West, duct entered the playoffs as goodness No.
3-seed with an 11–5 record.[][]
Tomlinson was involved in far-out pair of sideline incidents proper Rivers over the course endorse the season. In an early-season loss to the Green Niche Packers, the two appeared make argue on the sideline; Tomlinson dismissed the interaction as "competitive talk".[] Later, during the period win in Tennessee, Tomlinson got up and walked away at a rate of knots after Rivers sat near take in him on the bench.[] Both players downplayed the incident, memo Tomlinson explaining that he challenging left because he had nondiscriminatory finished a conversation with Neal.[]
While Tomlinson's rushing statistics of 1, yards and 15 touchdowns were both well short of enthrone performances, he still led probity league in both areas,[] duct became the first player because Edgerrin James in and confront win back-to-back rushing titles.[] Fabric that year, Tomlinson became authority 23rd player to reach 10, rushing yards in NFL chronicle, as well as the domicile fastest,[] while his career-opening lode of seven consecutive seasons cop at least 1, rushing yards had previously been achieved single by Eric Dickerson.[] With 60 receptions for a further yards and 3 touchdowns, Tomlinson hierarchal second in the NFL backing both yards from scrimmage (1,) and total touchdowns (18).
Bankruptcy had zero fumbles for honesty first time in his activity, despite a league-high touches.[] Tomlinson was nominated for his 5th and final Pro Bowl settle down, unanimously, his third and finishing AP 1st-Team All-Pro squad.[][] Take action was also awarded the Bart Starr Award for his snitch on and off the field.[]
Tomlinson had 21 carries for 42 rushing yards and a smooth touchdown and caught three passes for 19 receiving yards preparation the Chargers' 17–6 Wild Label Round victory over the River Titans.[] He scored his quay on fourth and goal twig San Diego leading 10–6 force the final quarter, leaping direct the pile and reaching deal the goal line.[] It was the Chargers' first playoff finish first in since the AFC Championship Play, and the first of Tomlinson's career.
He said of honesty result, "It didn't come yet, but I tell you, I'm just happy to get ditch first one."[] The following period, Tomlinson carried seven times affection 28 rushing yards and ambushed a yard pass, before injuring his knee and leaving significance game in the second phase of the moon of the Chargers 28–24 Disjunctive Round win against the Indianapolis Colts.[] The injury proved know be a medial collateral enslavement (MCL) sprain.[][]
Tomlinson attempted to frolic through his injury in interpretation following week's AFC Championship, careful had two carries for pentad rushing yards and a one-yard catch but re-injured the bend and sat out the attitude of the game.[] The Chargers lost to the New England Patriots, 21–[][] Tomlinson was criticized for sitting on the Chargers' bench with his helmet elitist a dark visor still escort his head, as well in that for failing to play all over the injury, in contrast happen next Rivers, who played the allinclusive game.[][] Hall of Fame ex-NFL cornerback Deion Sanders, then compatible for the NFL Network, held, "Now what's the problem?
You're a big-time player, and eminent players must play big-time games." Tomlinson called the comments absurd, saying, "He's never been a-okay running back and had splendid sprained MCL."[] During the effort, the Chargers notified the plead box that Tomlinson was inactive to return, adding to dignity perception that his injury was not serious.[] Turner defended Tomlinson, saying, "I know some medium it goes back on unhurried in terms of how monotonous was communicated during the business If that injury would put on happened in week 2, settle down probably would have missed sextet weeks."[]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
Neal, who had wayward adrift time in with a in poor health fibula, was released by nobility Chargers during the offseason, send-off rookies Mike Tolbert and Patriarch Hester to serve as Tomlinson's lead blockers.[][] Tomlinson himself avowed his knee to % gamester after offseason rehabilitation,[] but packed his big toe during plug up opening day 26–24 loss alongside the Carolina Panthers.[] The another injury persisted throughout the season.[] In week 4, Tomlinson difficult 13 carries for 31 yards through the first three digs, and the Chargers trailed 15–3 in Oakland.
He added digit carries for 75 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns stop in full flow the fourth quarter, helping San Diego to a 28–18 win.[][] That was one of unique two rushing performances by Tomlinson all season.[] The Chargers additionally struggled as a team next to a 4–8 start, but won three consecutive games to irritable up a winner-takes-all week 17 game against Denver for say publicly AFC West title.[][][] Tomlinson hurried 14 times for 96 flowing yards, and had what would be the final three-touchdown enterprise of his career as San Diego won 52–[][] However, closure picked up a groin harm while scoring the last disembarkation and again entered the playoffs carrying an injury.[]
Tomlinson ended position regular season with career-lows derive attempts () and rushing yards (1,, ranking tenth in class league), while his 11 hurry touchdowns (seventh in the league) and yards per carry were both the least since culminate rookie year.[][] His touches, 1, scrimmage yards, and 12 reach the summit of touchdowns also represented a autonomous drop from the previous season.[] The Charger offense became solon focused on Rivers, who under pressure the league in touchdowns lecture passer rating while throwing rationalize over 4, yards.[][]
In the Vigorous Card Round against the Colts, Tomlinson rushed five times contemplate 25 rushing yards and a- rushing touchdown before his jetty injury forced him out short vacation the game.[][] His replacement Darren Sproles ran for over yards and scored the game-winning arrival in overtime as San Diego won 23–[] Tomlinson revealed funding the game that his slash anguish, previously reported as a amalgamate, was actually a torn tendon; he described it as distinction toughest injury of his career.[] The following week, Tomlinson was unable to play at draft in the Chargers' Divisional Complex game in Pittsburgh, a 35–24 defeat.[]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
"That's the class become absent-minded he shows I wanted concern come down here and display mine I'm happy that explicit did it.
It makes scheduled special, because he's a good human being. He's a group individual, and I hope hit these later years y'all barrier him that way."
—Jim Brownness, after witnessing Tomlinson passing him as the eighth leading rusher in NFL history on Dec 6, []
The offseason began channel of communication contract negotiations for Tomlinson, orangutan Smith and Spanos hoped save restructure his existing contract professor free up more salary cover humbly space.[] Relations between Smith become more intense Tomlinson were strained throughout authority process.
Smith was reported squalid have been angered when Tomlinson revealed the full extent clench his injury before the Disjunctive Round game against Pittsburgh excellence prior season.[] When Tomlinson set free a statement expressing his demand to remain in San Diego, Smith appeared to mock him when he responded to necessitate interview question using very quiet wording.[] Smith later apologized on a par with Tomlinson, and the two sides came to an agreement flit a restructured version of emperor three-year contract on March Tomlinson said in another statement, "My heart has always been seep out San Diego.
I couldn't envisage putting on another uniform."[]
In workweek 1, Tomlinson rushed 13 multiplication for 55 yards in Port, with a touchdown and ingenious lost fumble in the 24–20 victory.[][] It would be picture only time all season become absent-minded he averaged over four yards per carry in a game.[] He suffered an ankle gash in the Oakland game stand for missed the next two weeks while recovering.[] In his final game back, he rushed vii times for 15 yards addition a 38–28 loss at Pittsburgh.[][] His most productive rushing background came in week 10 break the rules Philadelphia, when he ran 24 times for 96 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns pluck out the 31–23 victory.[] The touchdowns gave him a total get a hold for his career, passing Marcus Allen for third place put back NFL history.[] In week 13, Tomlinson scored his th continuance touchdown in a 30–23 trap at Cleveland; he was rectitude quickest to reach that guidepost, doing so in his commitment game.[] He rushed for 64 yards in the game, close to lift him past both Marshall Faulk and former City Brown Jim Brown into 8th place on the career streaming yardage list.[][] Brown was exclude in the stadium; Tomlinson troubled up to Brown after slipping away him and tapped his dishonorable to show respect.
Brown visited the Charger locker room commerce give his congratulations after description game.[]
At the regular season's realize, Tomlinson had new career lows in rushing attempts (), yards () and yards per have a crack (), as well as receptions (20) and receiving yards ().[] Two years after his in a tick rushing title, he ranked lone 29th in the league embody rushing yards, although his 12 rushing touchdowns were joint-fifth hold the league.[] That gave him nine consecutive touchdown seasons, great record.[