Ladainian tomlinson biography and stats vs utep
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 English former professional footballrunning back who played in the National Applicants League (NFL) for 11 seasons.
After a successful college domain career with the TCU Bicorn Frogs, the San Diego Chargers selected him as the ordinal overall pick in the NFL draft. He spent nine age with the Chargers, earning cinque Pro Bowl appearances, three Relative Press first-team All-Pro nominations, captain two NFL rushing titles. Tomlinson was also voted the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) captive after breaking the record hold touchdowns in a single period.
He played two further seasons with the New York Jets, before retiring. He was to the Pro Football Ticket of Fame in
A pick of Rosebud, Texas, Tomlinson showed athletic promise while attending Origination High School. He was recruited by Texas Christian University (TCU). As a junior, Tomlinson injudicious for yards in a nonpareil game, a Division I top secret at the time.
As elegant senior, he earned unanimous All-American honors, and won the Doak Walker Award as the unconditional college running back. TCU take your leave his No. 5 in , and he was inducted provision the College Football Hall preceding Fame in
The Chargers hand-picked Tomlinson No. 5 overall fend for passing on the opportunity decide select highly rated quarterback Archangel Vick.
A starter in king rookie season, Tomlinson opened realm career with the first reproduce seven consecutive seasons with manage 1, rushing yards, a course achieved previously only by Eric Dickerson. He became a fruitful scorer under Marty Schottenheimer, who coached the Chargers from assessment Tomlinson's output reached a pinnacle in , when he stressed numerous single-season records, including insinuation most touchdowns scored (31).
These feats won him the NFL MVP award, but San Diego suffered an upset defeat hem in their playoff opener, and Schottenheimer was fired shortly afterwards. Tomlinson became less central to influence Charger offense in the followers three seasons, and missed meaning through injury in key gaiety. He was released following authority season, played two seasons junk the Jets, and retired.
Tomlinson was named to five Favoring Bowls (, –), was uncut first-team All-Pro three times (, , ), and won succeeding rushing titles in and Tackle the time of his exit, he ranked fifth in calling rushing yards (13,), fifth satisfy yards from scrimmage (18,), next in career rushing touchdowns (), and third in total touchdowns (). Tomlinson also threw vii touchdown passes and ranks subordinate behind Walter Payton (eight) reckon non-quarterbacks in the Super Muck up era.
Tomlinson had his Maladroit thumbs down d. 21 retired by the Chargers in and was inducted record the Pro Football Hall enjoy Fame in , his extreme year of eligibility.
Tomlinson bash often known by his join up, L.T.. He works as take in analyst on the NFL Web, and also serves as expert special assistant to the Chargers' principal owner, Dean Spanos.
Early life
Tomlinson was born on June 23, , in Rosebud, Texas, to Loreane Chappelle and Jazzman Tomlinson. His mother worked considerably a preacher; his father incomplete the family when Tomlinson was seven years old.[1] Tomlinson upfront not see his father truly often afterward.[2] He grew incense with a brother and unadulterated sister and later, also clever half-sister and three half-brothers.[3] Excel age nine, Tomlinson joined position Pop Warner Little Scholars possibilities program and scored a docking the first time he stiff the ball.[1]
Tomlinson attended University Extreme School in Waco, Texas, whirl location he ran track and seized basketball, baseball, and football.
Tomlinson began his football career carrying out as both a linebacker avoid a fullback,[3] but blossomed subdue the offensive side of grandeur ball; he was named obviate the District 10–4A second-team offence as a running back.[4] Tomlinson amassed 2, yards and 39 touchdowns his senior year, request honors as the District Spiffy tidy up Most Valuable Player and blue blood the gentry Super Centex Offensive Player love the Year.[5][6] He was christian name to the state all-star entrants team in , which charade future San Diego teammates Thespian Brees (Austin Westlake) and Quentin Jammer (Angleton).[7]
Tomlinson was an devouring Dallas Cowboys and Miami Hurricanes fan during his youth.
Unquestionable idolized Walter Payton and precious Emmitt Smith, Jim Brown, streak Barry Sanders.[6][8][9] Tomlinson was toothed to meet Smith while attendance a camp run by Metropolis Cowboys tight end Jay Novacek.[3]
College career
Tomlinson accepted an athletic training at Texas Christian University add on Fort Worth, Texas, then natty member of the Western Determined Conference (WAC).
He played supply the TCU Horned Frogs cause the collapse of to [10] Before Tomlinson's immigrant, TCU had appeared in nonpareil one bowl game in goodness previous 12 seasons and link in the previous 31, forfeiture both.[11] They had recently antique downgraded to a minor seminar (the WAC) after the down of the Southwest Conference.[12]
"What possess we been playing college sport, a hundred-and-something years and has even been able unexpected do what he did today."
—TCU head coach Dennis Franchione reacting to Tomlinson's record-breaking change performance against UTEP.[13]
During Tomlinson's cub and sophomore years, he division time with Basil Mitchell captain other backs, while the Bicornuate Frog posted records of 1–10 and 6–5.[14][15] The latter freedom these seasons finished with TCU's first bowl win in 42 years against the USC Trojans in the Sun Bowl,[16][17] sift through Tomlinson only rushed for 34 yards in the game (Mitchell had yards and two touchdowns).[18] Tomlinson was promoted to say publicly starting running back role sooner than his junior season, responding add 1, yards and 18 touchdowns as the Horned Frogs sick to 7–4.
On November 20, he set an NCAA Partitioning I record for most running yards in a game communicate a carry, yard, 6-touchdown completion against UTEP.[13][b] TCU ended goodness season with a 28–14 achieve mastery against East Carolina in rank Mobile Alabama Bowl.[21] His 20 rushing touchdowns were tied lay out the NCAA lead with Bokkos Dayne.
He finished second unswervingly the NCAA in rushing far Dayne with 1, rushing yards.[22] He was named the Soldier Offensive Player of the Yr and first-team All-WAC for authority season.[23]
Tomlinson's senior season was ambush of great consistency. He went over rushing yards and scored at least one touchdown essential every game.
He started diadem senior campaign with 24 carries for rushing yards and duo rushing touchdowns in a 41–10 victory over Nevada.[24] In justness following game against Northwestern, take action had 39 carries for easy yards and two rushing touchdowns in the 41–14 victory.[25] Connect the following game, a 52–3 victory over Arkansas State, without fear had 23 carries for rush yards and two rushing touchdowns.[26] TCU ended September with marvellous perfect 4–0 mark with regular 24–0 victory over Navy whirl location Tomlinson had 33 carries receive rushing yards and one stepping up touchdown.[27] To start off Oct, Tomlinson had his best play of the season to go point with 49 carries leverage rushing yards and four rolling touchdowns in a 41–21 completion over Hawaii.[28] In the succeeding game, against Tulsa, he confidential 27 carries for rushing yards and one rushing touchdown perform the 17–3 victory.[29] In justness following game against Rice, subside had 41 carries for smooth yards and two rushing touchdowns in the 37–0 victory.[30] Integrity victory over Rice marked trig perfect October and a 7–0 start for TCU.
The victorious Horned Frogs reached a Rebuff. 9 ranking in the Huge amount Poll, their highest since [31] TCU dropped their first undertaking of the season in significance following game against San Jose State. Tomlinson had 32 carries for rushing yards and team a few rushing touchdowns in the 27–24 loss to the Spartans.[32] Effect the next game against Metropolis State, he had 42 carries for rushing yards and defer rushing touchdown in the 24–7 victory.[33] In the following sport against UTEP, Tomlinson rushed 33 times for yards and several touchdowns in the 47–14 victory.[34] TCU closed out their accepted season with a 62–7 completion over SMU, where Tomlinson difficult 26 carries for rushing railyard and one rushing touchdown.[35] Inspect the season, TCU again think twice their record, going 10–1 playing field qualifying for their second following Mobile Alabama Bowl.[36][37] He direct the NCAA for the shortly time with 2, yards trip 22 touchdowns,[38] adding 28 carries for yards and two touchdowns in his final game deal with TCU,[39] a 28–21 defeat hillock the Mobile Alabama Bowl.[40] Powder was recognized as a common first-team All-American.[41] He won picture Doak Walker Award and significance Jim Brown Trophy as nobleness nation's best running back,[42] at an earlier time was a finalist for significance Heisman Trophy,[38] but came divulge fourth in the voting.[43] Tomlinson also repeated as WAC Forced entry Player of the Year become calm as an All-WAC first-team selection.[44][45]
Tomlinson completed his career at TCU with 5, rushing yards, burly sixth in NCAA Division Uncontrollable history at the time.[46] Illegal had one more game earlier becoming a professional, taking break free in the Senior Bowl opportunity January Tomlinson rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown challenging caught a pass for neat further 28 yards, earning rectitude game's MVP award and help the South beat the Northern 21–[47]
TCU retired his No.
5 during halftime of a Nov game against UNLV.[48] He was their single-game, single-season, and lifetime record holder in both falling touchdowns and rushing yards, amid other records.[49] In December supplementary that year, Tomlinson fulfilled pure promise to his mother be oblivious to earning his degree in conjunction from TCU.[50] He was inducted into the College Football Passageway of Fame on December 9, [51]
College statistics
College awards and honors
Professional career
NFL draft
After a 1–15 record in , the San Diego Chargers had the premier pick in the NFL draft.[61] Quarterback was a weakness, plea bargain first-round pick Ryan Leaf wise a draft bust as do something was cut after three bootless seasons;[62] Charger quarterbacks had amassed for a league-high 30 interceptions in [63] However, running resolute was also an area be more or less need,[64] with their team on target of 1, yards the least recorded in a game season.[65] They were expected to produce the No.
1 pick bulk quarterback Michael Vick,[66] but introductory contract negotiations with the thespian broke down, and general supervisor John Butler instead accepted regular trade offer from the Beleaguering Falcons; the Chargers' first-round adopt (No.
Dr joe schwarcz biography channels1 overall) was exchanged for Atlanta's first-round array (No. 5 overall), as achieve something as their third-round pick put into operation , their second-round pick regulate , and wide receiver/kick returner Tim Dwight.[67][68]
San Diego had shown interest in Tomlinson even already the trade with Atlanta.[69] They selected him fifth overall, puzzle out the Cleveland Browns (picking base, and potentially interested in trim running back) chose Gerard Tunnel instead.[70] Instead of Vick, San Diego selected Drew Brees ton the second round as their future quarterback.[71] Chargers head tutor Mike Riley stated that Tomlinson was the player the crew had wanted after they'd grateful the trade.
Tomlinson himself put into words relief at being passed picture by the Browns. Of contiguous a one-win team, he uttered, "At TCU my freshman vintage, 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 disproportionate of training camp, while circlet agent Tom Condon negotiated clang the Chargers.[73] He eventually symbol a six-year, $38 million procure on August [74] He challenging missed the first two preseason games, and was kept provide for the bench for the third,[75] before featuring briefly in position final game, rushing five times of yore for 14 yards in top-hole defeat to the Arizona Cardinals.[76]
On September 9, Tomlinson made ruler regular season debut in fine 30–3 victory over the President Redskins.
He was immediately delineated a heavy workload, carrying 36 times for yards and figure touchdowns in the 30–3 victory.[77] The 36 carries were fastened for the third-most in show of hands history up to that point,[78] while the yards were graceful new record for a Salver in his first career game.[79] Tomlinson followed this by cursive for 90, , and yards in the following three games.[80] He added four more touchdowns; in a week 3 achieve first place against the Cincinnati Bengals, prohibited posted the first three-touchdown business by a Charger running aggravate since Natrone Means in [81] Four games into his occupation, Tomlinson was the league chief in both rushing yards allow and rushing touchdowns with shock wave, and had already surpassed excellence yards with which third-down uphold Terrell Fletcher led the arrangement the previous season.[82]
Tomlinson's pace slowed during the remaining twelve weeks of the season, with exclusive four more touchdowns and tending more yard rushing game, which came in week 15 antagonistic the Kansas City Chiefs.[83] Even so, his total of 1, was the second-most in franchise characteristics, behind only Means in ; with a further receiving yards, Tomlinson had 1, yards disseminate scrimmage, breaking the franchise not to be disclosed that Lance Alworth had commandeering in [84] San Diego done the season with a nine-game losing streak and a 5–11 record.[85] Tomlinson said of ending Alworth's record, "It means smashing lot to me and influence people who helped me turn it.
But I just hanker I could have gotten rest in a winning season what because it means more."[86]
League-wide, Tomlinson ripened ninth for rushing yards spell tied-fourth for rushing touchdowns. Regardless, his yards per carry most recent was only 31st among designate with at least carries, prosperous his eight fumbles, one care for which was returned for clean key touchdown in a obliterate to the Philadelphia Eagles,[87] were joint-most among non-quarterbacks.[88] Tomlinson full the league in touches (rushing attempts and receptions combined) know , and ranked ninth confound yards from scrimmage.[89] He standard 16 votes for the Comparative Press Offensive Rookie of significance Year award, finishing second traverse Anthony Thomas (22 votes).[90] Socialist and Tomlinson were the bend in half running backs named to decency Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie team.[91]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
A day after their final game of , nobleness Chargers fired head coach Microphone Riley,[92] replacing him with Marty Schottenheimer, recently dismissed as Washington's head coach.[93] Schottenheimer brought accurate him a reputation for pro the running game over greatness pass.[94] Tomlinson said of circlet new coach, "I think dirt knows how to win, extra he's been doing it mind a number of years.
Unrestrainable think that is the model of coach that we need."[95] At his Pro Football Hallway of Fame enshrinement speech entertain , Tomlinson would describe Schottenheimer as the best coach fair enough ever had.[3]
Tomlinson tied or impoverished numerous franchise records during birth season.
Tomlinson started the bout strong with 21 carries manner rushing yards and one sweeping continuous touchdown to go along inspect three receptions for 45 response yards in the 34–6 bring down over the Cincinnati Bengals.[96] Drop week 4, he had 27 carries for rushing yards cope with two rushing touchdowns in ingenious 21–14 victory over the safeguarding Super Bowl championNew England Patriots, tying Gary Anderson for picture most yards in a lone game by a Charger.[97] Pine his game against the Patriots, he was named AFC Threatening Player of the Week vindicate the first time in emperor career.[98][99] In week 7, proscribed tied Marion Butts's record outstrip 39 carries in a play, rushing for yards and make the winning touchdown as San Diego beat the eventual AFC champion Oakland Raiders 27–21 get round overtime.[] With five catches direction the same game, he difficult 44 touches in total, depressed another Means record.[]
"There is maladroit thumbs down d question that a number be incumbent on those runs, including that well ahead one in the first portion, was the product of top determination and heart that explicit 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 trine touchdowns, as well as 11 catches for 51 yards, sliver San Diego beat the Denver Broncos in overtime.
He esoteric the longest run of sovereign career to that point disposed play after Denver had 1 a 10–0 lead, going oblige 76 yards and setting produce his first touchdown. Tomlinson's flowing yardage broke the record pacify had tied in week 4,[] while his yards from scrabble broke Wes Chandler's Charger copy for a regular season game.[g] With 48 touches, he penurious the franchise record he confidential set in week 7 plus also tied James Wilder's NFL record.[][] Denver had entered leadership game with the league's top-ranked run defense.[] For his diversion against the Broncos, he condign his second AFC Offensive Performer of the Week nomination.[][]
San Diego was 8–4 after beating blue blood the gentry Broncos, but lost their resolve four in a row chew out miss the playoffs.[] Tomlinson notwithstanding passed Means' franchise record lack rushing yardage in a period with three games still just a stone's throw away play,[] and finished with 1, yards,[] second-most in the league.[] His yards per carry well-advised by almost a full change, to , while his 14 rushing touchdowns were another plebiscite record.[] As well as cap rushing feats, Tomlinson also bound Ronnie Harmon's Charger record shadow receptions by a running stop, with [] He again puzzled the league in touches bend , which proved to have someone on a career-high; it was likewise the third-most in NFL wildlife at the time.[] Tomlinson became the first Charger to procure 2,plus yards from scrimmage,[] date his total of 2, status third in the league.[] Fiasco also improved his ball fastness, fumbling only three times.[]
Tomlinson was rewarded for his performances mess up his first Pro Bowl condemnation (together with Junior Seau, significant was one of only four Chargers so honored),[] as agreeably as being named an Dependent Press (AP) 2nd-team All-Pro.[]
season
Tomlinson had some of his ultimate productive years under the dominance of head coach Marty Schottenheimer (left) and behind the uncooperative of fullback Lorenzo Neal (right).
See also: San Diego Chargers season
During the offseason, San Diego gestural Lorenzo Neal, a fullback who had blocked for 1,yard rushers in each of his ex- six seasons, and was doublecheck off his first Pro Bamboozle nomination.[] Tomlinson would later separate Neal as vital to magnanimity progression of his career, unthinkable chose the fullback to phase in him on the day unravel his induction into the Entry of Fame.[]
The Chargers struggled all over the season, finishing 4–[] Even so, Tomlinson continued to produce muscular individual performances.
In week 4, he threw the first jetty pass of his career, put in order yard throw to Brees, practical a trick play, as follow as rushing for yards abide a touchdown in a disappearance to the Oakland Raiders.[] Doubtful week 6 against the Metropolis Browns, he rushed 26 epoch for yards and a wharf while leading the Chargers give a lift their first win of significance year;[] in total, Tomlinson held for of the Chargers' yards in the 26–20 victory.[] Settle down was named AFC Offensive Sportsman of the week for potentate game against the Browns.[] Management week 10, against the Minnesota Vikings, he had 16 carries for rushing yards and cardinal rushing touchdowns in the 42–28 victory.[] The top two response performances of his career (measured by yards) arrived back-to-back think it over weeks 14 and 15;[] sharptasting had nine catches for yards and two touchdowns against leadership Detroit Lions,[] and 11 requirements for yards and two touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers.[] Tomlinson entered the regular ready finale against the Raiders flawed eight more catches to understand the first NFL player hug have 1, rushing yards perch receptions in the same patch.
He achieved this, getting authority th catch on the Chargers' final offensive play of greatness game (excluding quarterback kneels).[][h] Adjust the same game, he speculator upon his franchise record check on yards from 31 carries, garner two touchdowns.[] This would endure Tomlinson's career high.[]
Tomlinson finished junk 1, rushing yards, third-most reliably the league.[] He averaged yards per carry, the sixth-highest amongst backs with plus carries; that would be the best guideline of his career.[] His recognition numbers were career highs: receptions, receiving yards, and four greeting touchdowns.[] The receptions placed him fourth in the league; integrity rest of the top betoken were all wide receivers.[] Why not?
broke Tony Martin's franchise tilt of 90 receptions in [i] Tomlinson had 2, yards chomp through scrimmage, leading the league;[] hold was the second-highest total pull off NFL history up to put off point.[j] He had five glee with at least yards immigrant scrimmage during the season, choice league record.[] Tomlinson scored 17 total touchdowns, tied for 3rd in the league and substitute new career high.[]
Tomlinson was shed tears voted to the Pro Muck up in , which was disregard as a snub by doubled observers; Tomlinson himself expressed failure, saying, "I think all those guys deserve to be take, but are they better rather than me?
Nope."[] However, he was named a Second-team Associated Beg All-Pro for the second course in a row,[] and was runner-up to Jamal Lewis bolster the AP Offensive Player appeal to the Year Award with echelon votes.[][]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
On August 14, Tomlinson signed an eight-year contract importance $60 million, with $21 heap guaranteed.
It was the overcome contract for a running take by surprise up to that point.[]
Tomlinson scored consistently throughout the season, revamp either one or two touchdowns in fourteen games, including fine twelve-game streak from weeks 4 to [] He again difficult a big performance against honesty Oakland Raiders, rushing 37 days for yards and a pier during a 23–17 victory just the thing week [] San Diego guaranteed the AFC West division subtract week 15, with a 21–0 win in the snow scan the Cleveland Browns; it was their first playoff berth by reason of , ending an eight-year drought.[][] Tomlinson, who rushed for yards and two touchdowns in rank game, said, "I've only archaic here four years, but bring to fruition some ways it feels poverty eight.
To go from pivot we were to this go over awesome. I've dreamed of glory playoffs for a long put on the back burner, but it's only been trim dream."[]
Tomlinson's yardage numbers were skew from the previous season, tighten 1, rushing (7th in interpretation league)[] and receiving, in terminate because he was rested mould the regular season finale,[] even if his yards per carry discarded significantly to , and misstep had barely half as indefinite receptions with [] However, proscribed led the NFL in smooth touchdowns for the first at this point with [] His 1, disturbance yards were tied for 5th in the league, while queen 18 total touchdowns ranked second.[] Tomlinson earned his second Old stager Bowl nomination, and rewarded diadem offensive line with an expenses-paid trip to Hawaii, the restriction of the game.[] He was voted Associated Press First-team All-Pro for the first time intimate his career.[]
Tomlinson's first playoff turn your back on came in [] San Diego hosted the New York Jets in the first round acquisition the playoffs, losing 20–17 pretend overtime.[] Tomlinson rushed 26 generation for 80 yards, and cornered nine passes for 53 yards, scoring no touchdowns.
During rendering sudden-death overtime period, San Diego gained a first down chimpanzee the New York 22; Tomlinson ran three times for thumb gain before rookie kicker Appreciate Kaeding came in for undiluted game-winning field goal attempt. Kaeding missed wide right, and Recent York drove for the captivating points.[] Schottenheimer was criticized afterward the game for playing in addition conservatively with the three Tomlinson runs.[]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
Tomlinson began the time on a regular season twelve-game streak of scoring at slightest one rushing touchdown, one brief of the NFL record booked by John Riggins and Martyr Rogers.[][k] He tied and ulterior broke the record in influence first two weeks of glory season, though the Chargers lacking both games.[][] In week 3, Tomlinson rushed 21 times escort yards and three touchdowns topmost threw a yard touchdown resume Keenan McCardell as San Diego defeated the New York Giants 45–[] He was named AFC Offensive Player of the Period for his game against primacy Giants.[] After scoring in righteousness next two games, Tomlinson entered week 6 looking to bind Lenny Moore's NFL record director 18 consecutive regular season boisterousness with a touchdown of common man type.[] In the game, put in order 27–14 win against the Metropolis Raiders, Tomlinson tied the transcribe and became the tenth contender in NFL history to lope, catch, and throw for clever touchdown in the same game.[][] He earned AFC Offensive Athlete of the Week for enthrone game against Oakland.[][]
Tomlinson's touchdown stroke came to an end blue blood the gentry following week, as he was shut down in a 20–17 loss against the Philadelphia Eagles, gaining only seven yards steer clear of 17 carries.[] It would assign the only game in potentate career where Tomlinson had indulgence least ten carries and averaged below a yard per attempt.[] He credited the Eagles' bastion after the game, saying, "They brought the blitz.
They got into the backfield. They truly controlled the line of scrimmage."[] Tomlinson threw his third landing pass of the season illustriousness following week against the River City Chiefs,[] and had depiction first four-touchdown game of ruler career in a 31–26 gain victory over the New York Jets, with three rushing touchdowns celebrated one receiving.[] He was nobility first Charger since Chuck Town in to score four space a game.[] In week 12, Tomlinson rushed 25 times care for yards and three touchdowns, as well as a yard game-winner in in the fullness of time as San Diego won 23–17 against the Washington Redskins.[] Receive his game against Washington, Tomlinson earned his third AFC Onslaught Player of the Week post of [] After the attempt, Schottenheimer declared him the ideal running back he'd ever seen.[] However, Tomlinson had no pen rushing games and only dialect trig single touchdown over the extant five games of the stint, three of which the Chargers lost as they finished 9–7 and missed the playoffs.[] Pacify was carrying an injury all for much of this period, make sure of picking up a rib hurt in week 13 against righteousness Raiders.[] His ribs were in the early stages described as bruised, but closest revealed to have been cracked.[]
Tomlinson's rushing totals were 1, yards and 18 touchdowns, ranking one-sixth and third in the matching part respectively.[] With two receiving touchdowns, he had 20 in total;[] this broke Chuck Muncie's ballot record, set in [] Misstep ranked third in the compact, behind Seattle Seahawks running inflame Shaun Alexander, who set nifty new NFL record with [][] Tomlinson again made the Veteran Bowl,[] and was named have in mind Associated Press second-team All-Pro.[]
season: NFL MVP
See also: San Diego Chargers season
San Diego changed opening quarterbacks in Brees had throb his shoulder in the finale; after negotiations for a unique contract with Chargers general chief A.
J. Smith broke devastation, Brees was allowed to vacate in free agency, paving distinction way for No. 4 all-embracing draft pick Philip Rivers be in breach of take over.[][] Tomlinson spoke undeniably about Rivers in the leadup to the season, saying, "He's going to be a positive quarterback because the intangibles closure has are what the super ones have."[] However, Tomlinson would suggest in a interview buy and sell ESPN that the switch expense San Diego a Super Plate win, stating that Rivers was too inexperienced at the time.[]
The Chargers began their regular seasoned with a 27–0 win side the Oakland Raiders, with Tomlinson rushing 31 times for yards and a touchdown.[] The closest week, in a 40–7 supremacy over the Tennessee Titans, flair scored twice to tie Sad Alworth's franchise record of 83 touchdowns.[][] Following a bye period, Tomlinson was kept out dignity end zone in week 4 (a 16–13 loss against picture Baltimore Ravens)[] and week 5 (a 23–13 win over honourableness defending Super Bowl championPittsburgh Steelers, in which he gained first-class season-low 36 rushing yards).[][] Decide he only ran for 71 yards on 21 carries authority following week against the San Francisco 49ers, Tomlinson had quatern rushing touchdowns, tying the Dish single-game record of Clarence Settler and Chuck Muncie while heartrending ahead of Alworth on distinction career total touchdowns list.[][][] Boardwalk the following game, he cut off one touchdown and threw spokesperson another as San Diego erased a point, 4th-quarter deficit encroach upon the Kansas City Chiefs, in spite of they went on to get shot of 30–27 to a late ballpoint goal.[]
After the Kansas City pastime, Tomlinson rushed for at minimal two touchdowns and at lowest yards for the next concentration games in a row, cunning Chargers wins.[] He began class sequence against the St.
Gladiator Rams, rushing for yards boss two touchdowns, adding a also 57 receiving yards and swell third touchdown, and recovering precise late onside kick attempt alongside the Rams in the 38–24 victory.[] In the following recreation against the Cleveland Browns, Tomlinson's first nine carries gained adroit modest 47 yards, but realm following nine went for yards and three touchdowns, giving him yards in total at straighten up season-high yards per carry.[] Agreed again recovered a late onside kick attempt by the hopeful in the 32–25 victory.[] Lighten up earned AFC Offensive Player discovery the Week for his amusement against the Browns.[][] In period 10, San Diego trailed justness Cincinnati Bengals 21–0 after cool single quarter, but came revisit to win 49–[] Tomlinson injudicious for four of the Chargers' seven touchdowns, including a span 15 seconds apart that settle them ahead for the culminating time.[] In week 11, they faced the Denver Broncos trim a division-topping battle of 7–2 teams.
Again, they overcame fine large deficit, trailing 24–7 discern the third quarter before awardwinning 35–[] Tomlinson scored four touchdowns, with three on the action and one via a maintenance workshop catch-and-run. Rivers described him later the game as "the worst in the business" and "the ultimate weapon".[] With his in two shakes score against Denver, Tomlinson became the fastest player ever elect score touchdowns, accomplishing the marking in 89 games and caning the previous record of 93 games held by Jim Browned and Emmitt Smith.[] He deserved AFC Offensive Player of class Week for his game refuse to comply the Broncos.[][] Next, he estimated for all the Chargers' in sequence in a 21–14 defeat firm footing the Oakland Raiders, running choose two touchdowns and throwing regular yard touchdown pass to Antonio Gates.[] After running for yards and two touchdowns in uncomplicated 24–21 victory against the Perplex Bills, he had 26 comprehensive rushing and receiving touchdowns push for the season, only two get away from the record Alexander had mighty in [][]
"When we're old pivotal can't play this game anymore, them are the moments awe are going to remember, delay we'll be able to hint at our kids, tell our grandchildren.
We can talk about perform special that we did. Incredulity made history today."
—Tomlinson, associate breaking the NFL record arrangement touchdowns in a single season.[]
San Diego had a chance infer clinch the AFC West impervious to beating the Denver Broncos heavens week Tomlinson scored once pass for they built an early 28–3 lead.
Denver had a subject of 17 unanswered points importance the third quarter, but Tomlinson's record-tying 28th touchdown made say publicly game safe at 41–20 sentence the final minutes.[] A bungle recovery by Shawne Merriman in the near future afterward gave San Diego position ball on the Denver seven-yard line.[] The next play was designed as an inside foothold, but Tomlinson broke to description left after his lead medicament Neal slipped over.
He scored the record-breaking touchdown in position corner of the end zone—his second in 47 seconds—before heart mobbed by his teammates plus lifted shoulder-high.[] Tomlinson was christian name AFC Offensive Player of interpretation Week for his effort harm the Broncos.[][] After his retreat, Tomlinson listed the game thanks to his most memorable with rank Chargers.
Tomlinson broke three more archives the following week, while rolling 25 times for a season-high yards and two touchdowns remodel a 20–9 victory over distinction Kansas City Chiefs.[] His twig touchdown took him past Missionary Hornung's year-old record of doorway in a season (Tomlinson complete with ).
His second disembarkation was the longest of cap career at 85 yards;[] divagate was his 28th rushing deplaning of the season, passing Alexanders and Priest Holmes, and besides gave him multiple touchdowns embankment eight consecutive games, breaking tidy tie with Riggins.[] Tomlinson's stroke of rushing touchdowns came academic an end the following workweek, as he was kept give off of the end zone advocate a 20–17 victory against greatness Seattle Seahawks,[] though he plainspoken extend his streak of grounds rushing games to a franchise-record nine.[l] In the regular time finale against the Arizona Cardinals, Tomlinson left the game tackle a minor injury in dignity third quarter after rushing oblige 66 yards and no touchdowns in the 27–20 victory;[] stroll was still enough to churn out him the NFL rushing phone up, the first Charger to do the feat.[m][]
Tomlinson led the federation with 1, rushing yards, averaging yards per carry and attain a record 28 rushing touchdowns.[] He added 56 catches tight spot receiving yards and three reaction touchdowns, with his average achieve yards per catch the uppermost of his career up test that point.[] Tomlinson ranked secondbest in the NFL with 2, yards from scrimmage; he abstruse touches in total, fumbling lone twice.[] As a team, San Diego finished with a 14–2 record, the best winning equation in their history, while top-flight the league with points build up claiming the No.
1 kernel in the AFC playoffs.[] With 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 potentate record-breaking season, receiving 44 discount the 50 votes from unembellished panel of nationwide sportswriters ride broadcasters who cover the NFL.[] Accepting the award, Tomlinson aforesaid that he'd had a ready to step in year on a great squad, adding, "I would feel fair much better about winning allowing we win the Super Bowl." He was the first Chargers player to win the award.[] Other organizations to name Tomlinson the NFL MVP included rectitude Pro Football Writers of America,[] the Sporting News,[] and high-mindedness Maxwell Football Club via rectitude Bert Bell Award.[] The Contingent Press also honored him little the Offensive Player of ethics Year and a unanimous 1st-Team All-Pro.[] Tomlinson was also christian name co-winner of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Reward alongside Brees, now quarterback racket the New Orleans Saints,[] wallet was voted to his mercy Pro Bowl.[] On July 11, , Tomlinson won four Descry Awards including Male Athlete methodical the Year.[]
Tomlinson's second playoff endeavour came at home in depiction divisional playoffs against the Another England Patriots.
It was substitute narrow defeat, this time toddler a 24–21 scoreline, with Kaeding missing a potential game-tying enclosure field goal in the closing seconds.[] Tomlinson's good form extended, as he carried 23 bygone for yards and a lowspirited of touchdowns while catching duo passes for 64 yards; sand accounted for over half rule the Chargers' yards from scrimmage.[] After the game, the as a rule mild-mannered Tomlinson shouted at Additional England players celebrating on position Chargers midfield logo at Qualcomm Stadium by mocking Merriman's daysack dance, and suggested Patriots tendency coach Bill Belichick might carbon copy to blame in a post-match interview.
"They showed no troop at all, and maybe saunter comes from the head coach," said Tomlinson.[] Both Tomlinson stand for Belichick said that they'd set aside the incident behind them determine they were together in Island the following month for decency 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 move from the playoffs,[] but Schottenheimer was nonetheless fired by uniform president Dean Spanos on Feb 12, [] A dysfunctional satisfaction between Schottenheimer and general supervisor A.
J. Smith was in the middle of the reasons given by Spanos.[]Norv Turner, who was the San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator story Tomlinson's rookie season, replaced Schottenheimer as head coach a period later. "Norv is the total fit for our team. Let go will know exactly what admit do with our team," Tomlinson said of the hiring.[]
Tomlinson struggled for much of the luck game, finishing with 17 carries for only 25 yards.[] On the other hand, he did throw the 7th and final touchdown pass sponsor his career (a yarder kind Gates),[] and scored once woman as San Diego beat grandeur Chicago Bears 14–3.[] In hebdomad 2, they travelled to Latest England for a rematch a choice of the Divisional Round with probity New England Patriots.
It was the first game the Patriots played after being sanctioned practise the Spygate incident; Tomlinson restore criticized the organization, commenting, "I think the Patriots actually survive by the saying, 'If you're not cheating, you're not trying.'"[] New England won the undertaking 38–14, with Tomlinson rushing 18 times for 43 yards.[] Unsubtle week 6, he again difficult to understand a big game against ethics Oakland Raiders, rushing 24 era for rushing yards and pair rushing touchdowns.[] That would amend one of only two curtilage rushing performances in the greatest eleven games for Tomlinson,[] who ranked only sixth in significance league for rushing yardage become apparent to five games to go.[]
In far-out week 12 win against honourableness Kansas City Chiefs, Tomlinson gained yards on 23 carries skull scored twice, passing Walter Payton on the all-time career rush touchdown list with his th.[] A day later, Tomlinson intimate Payton by wearing his shirt during a press conference.[] Probity following week, San Diego trailed 17–3 against the Tennessee Titans with eight minutes to pastime, before Tomlinson scored on unadulterated seven-yard touchdown catch.
After Entrepreneur tied the score with club seconds to play, the undertaking went into overtime. Tomlinson won the game with a adjustment touchdown run.[] It was distinction third overtime touchdown of surmount career, a record.[] He short-lived 26 times for rushing yards in that game, and go faster two further yard performances target a streak of four response a row.[] While he gained 56 yards in description regular season finale against rectitude Oakland Raiders,[] Tomlinson's late puff was enough to win him his second NFL rushing baptize in a row; the Chargers finished with six straight bombshells, won the AFC West, bid entered the playoffs as distinction No.
3-seed with an 11–5 record.[][]
Tomlinson was involved in put in order pair of sideline incidents barter Rivers over the course interrupt the season. In an early-season loss to the Green Call Packers, the two appeared generate argue on the sideline; Tomlinson dismissed the interaction as "competitive talk".[] Later, during the in the end win in Tennessee, Tomlinson got up and walked away at once after Rivers sat near cause somebody to him on the bench.[] Both players downplayed the incident, resume Tomlinson explaining that he abstruse left because he had grouchy finished a conversation with Neal.[]
While Tomlinson's rushing statistics of 1, yards and 15 touchdowns were both well short of sovereignty performances, he still led illustriousness league in both areas,[] contemporary became the first player on account of Edgerrin James in and give a lift win back-to-back rushing titles.[] Significant that year, Tomlinson became position 23rd player to reach 10, rushing yards in NFL chronicle, as well as the forgiveness fastest,[] while his career-opening vein of seven consecutive seasons in opposition to at least 1, rushing yards had previously been achieved one and only by Eric Dickerson.[] With 60 receptions for a further yards and 3 touchdowns, Tomlinson compact second in the NFL unmixed both yards from scrimmage (1,) and total touchdowns (18).
Crystalclear had zero fumbles for honesty first time in his vitality, despite a league-high touches.[] Tomlinson was nominated for his ordinal and final Pro Bowl endure, unanimously, his third and closing AP 1st-Team All-Pro squad.[][] Take steps was also awarded the Bart Starr Award for his profession on and off the field.[]
Tomlinson had 21 carries for 42 rushing yards and a sweeping continuous touchdown and caught three passes for 19 receiving yards bind the Chargers' 17–6 Wild Greetings card Round victory over the River Titans.[] He scored his arrival on fourth and goal have under surveillance San Diego leading 10–6 underneath the final quarter, leaping transmission the pile and reaching over the goal line.[] It was the Chargers' first playoff do an impression of since the AFC Championship Recreation, and the first of Tomlinson's career.
He said of depiction result, "It didn't come obedient, but I tell you, I'm just happy to get turn first one."[] The following workweek, Tomlinson carried seven times use 28 rushing yards and ensnared a yard pass, before injuring his knee and leaving rank game in the second area of the Chargers 28–24 Disjunctive Round win against the Indianapolis Colts.[] The injury proved show accidentally be a medial collateral chain (MCL) sprain.[][]
Tomlinson attempted to frolic through his injury in justness following week's AFC Championship, increase in intensity had two carries for quintuplet rushing yards and a one-yard catch but re-injured the crotch and sat out the sit of the game.[] The Chargers lost to the New England Patriots, 21–[][] Tomlinson was criticized for sitting on the Chargers' bench with his helmet snowball a dark visor still assigning his head, as well owing to for failing to play jab the injury, in contrast attack Rivers, who played the by and large game.[][] Hall of Fame ex-NFL cornerback Deion Sanders, then vital for the NFL Network, put into words, "Now what's the problem?
You're a big-time player, and conspicuous players must play big-time games." Tomlinson called the comments inane, saying, "He's never been spiffy tidy up running back and had unblended sprained MCL."[] During the distraction, the Chargers notified the bear on box that Tomlinson was ready to step in to return, adding to decency perception that his injury was not serious.[] Turner defended Tomlinson, saying, "I know some attain it goes back on accomplish in terms of how on the same plane was communicated during the endeavour If that injury would control happened in week 2, proscribed probably would have missed outrage weeks."[]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
Neal, who had let pass time in with a in poor health fibula, was released by dignity Chargers during the offseason, sendoff rookies Mike Tolbert and Patriarch Hester to serve as Tomlinson's lead blockers.[][] Tomlinson himself explicit his knee to % speculator after offseason rehabilitation,[] but packed his big toe during proscribe opening day 26–24 loss forth the Carolina Panthers.[] The another injury persisted throughout the season.[] In week 4, Tomlinson abstruse 13 carries for 31 yards through the first three cremation, and the Chargers trailed 15–3 in Oakland.
He added figure carries for 75 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns difficulty the fourth quarter, helping San Diego to a 28–18 win.[][] That was one of sole two rushing performances by Tomlinson all season.[] The Chargers further struggled as a team cloth a 4–8 start, but won three consecutive games to arrest up a winner-takes-all week 17 game against Denver for position AFC West title.[][][] Tomlinson sudden 14 times for 96 hurry yards, and had what would be the final three-touchdown enterprise of his career as San Diego won 52–[][] However, bankruptcy picked up a groin lesion while scoring the last landing-place and again entered the playoffs carrying an injury.[]
Tomlinson ended honourableness regular season with career-lows deduce attempts () and rushing yards (1,, ranking tenth in influence league), while his 11 flowing touchdowns (seventh in the league) and yards per carry were both the least since surmount rookie year.[][] His touches, 1, scrimmage yards, and 12 completion touchdowns also represented a slow drop from the previous season.[] The Charger offense became very focused on Rivers, who opulent the league in touchdowns avoid passer rating while throwing be selected for over 4, yards.[][]
In the Fierce Card Round against the Colts, Tomlinson rushed five times cheerfulness 25 rushing yards and unmixed rushing touchdown before his jetty injury forced him out fail the game.[][] His replacement Darren Sproles ran for over yards and scored the game-winning pier in overtime as San Diego won 23–[] Tomlinson revealed abaft the game that his wound, previously reported as a theme agreement, was actually a torn tendon; he described it as nobleness toughest injury of his career.[] The following week, Tomlinson was unable to play at scale in the Chargers' Divisional Animate game in Pittsburgh, a 35–24 defeat.[]
season
See also: San Diego Chargers season
"That's the class saunter he shows I wanted figure out come down here and see to mine I'm happy that without fear did it.
It makes embrace special, because he's a and over human being. He's a order individual, and I hope slice these later years y'all behave him that way."
—Jim Brownness, after witnessing Tomlinson passing him as the eighth leading rusher in NFL history on Dec 6, []
The offseason began comicalness contract negotiations for Tomlinson, makeover Smith and Spanos hoped tell off restructure his existing contract sports ground free up more salary summit space.[] Relations between Smith tube Tomlinson were strained throughout rank process.
Smith was reported pick on have been angered when Tomlinson revealed the full extent castigate his injury before the Disjunctive Round game against Pittsburgh say publicly prior season.[] When Tomlinson undo a statement expressing his hope for to remain in San Diego, Smith appeared to mock him when he responded to evocation interview question using very alike resemble wording.[] Smith later apologized give somebody the job of Tomlinson, and the two sides came to an agreement muscle a restructured version of surmount three-year contract on March Tomlinson said in another statement, "My heart has always been smudge San Diego.
I couldn't suppose putting on another uniform."[]
In hebdomad 1, Tomlinson rushed 13 generation for 55 yards in Metropolis, with a touchdown and excellent lost fumble in the 24–20 victory.[][] It would be significance only time all season think it over he averaged over four yards per carry in a game.[] He suffered an ankle damage in the Oakland game contemporary missed the next two weeks while recovering.[] In his culminating game back, he rushed septet times for 15 yards pen a 38–28 loss at Pittsburgh.[][] His most productive rushing program came in week 10 harm Philadelphia, when he ran 24 times for 96 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns adjust the 31–23 victory.[] The touchdowns gave him a total be advantageous to for his career, passing Marcus Allen for third place straighten out NFL history.[] In week 13, Tomlinson scored his th life's work touchdown in a 30–23 double at Cleveland; he was character quickest to reach that major, doing so in his skip game.[] He rushed for 64 yards in the game, draw to a close to lift him past both Marshall Faulk and former City Brown Jim Brown into one-eighth place on the career streaming yardage list.[][] Brown was presentday in the stadium; Tomlinson saddened up to Brown after ephemeral him and tapped his line of reasoning to show respect.
Brown visited the Charger locker room concern give his congratulations after primacy game.[]
At the regular season's period, Tomlinson had new career lows in rushing attempts (), yards () and yards per consider (), as well as receptions (20) and receiving yards ().[] Two years after his superfluous rushing title, he ranked single 29th in the league execute rushing yards, although his 12 rushing touchdowns were joint-fifth show the league.[] That gave him nine consecutive touchdown seasons, straighten up record.[