Wilson: Chargers cut Tomlinson

In a move anticipated around the NFL and by LaDainian Tomlinson, the San Diego Chargers announced today that they have released the star running back.

Tomlinson, 30, is the Chargers' all-time leading rusher.

Tomlinson had a terrific nine-year run in San Diego, rushing for 12,490 yards and 138 touchdowns.

He also caught 530 passes for an additional 15 scores.

However, his production dipped to 730 yards last season while averaging just 3.3 yards per carry.

Chargers team president Dean Spanos met with Tomlinson earlier today to inform him that he was being cut.

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

“It has been a privilege to work with him and witness his entire career. I’m proud of him and grateful to him for the way he has carried himself both on and off the field. No matter where he chooses to continue his career, in my mind LT will always be a San Diego Charger. His legacy as one of the greatest running backs the game has ever seen will be as a Charger.”

Tomlinson set 28 team records, including the marks for career rushing yards, yards from scrimmage and touchdowns.

He set an NFL single-season record with 31 touchdowns in 2006.

He ranks eighth on the NFL's all-time rushing chart.

And the former NFL Most Valuabel Player was named to five Pro Bowls.

“I was fortunate to be the offensive coordinator here during LT’s rookie year in 2001 and it didn’t take long to realize that we were dealing with a special player and a special individual,” Chargers coach Norv Turner said. “And when I returned to the Chargers in 2007, I was proud to be a part of his second NFL rushing title.

“LT is a true pro. He’s one of the greatest runners this game has ever seen and words can’t do justice to the things he’s accomplished on and off the field.”

The Chargers traded back with the Atlanta Falcons in 2001, passing up a chance to draft Michael Vick and selecting Tomlinson out of Texas Christian with the fifth overall pick.

“There were a lot of eyebrows raised when we made that trade, but LT proved to be everything we thought he’d be and more,” Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said. “He’s a future Hall of Famer. My only regret is that he leaves San Diego without a Super Bowl ring.”

Tomlinson was due a $2 million roster bonus next month. According to NFL Players Association records, Tomlinson was scheduled to make a $3 million base salary in 2010.

For Tomlinson, this is a career crossroads.

In a situation where he would split carries or play behind a strong offensive line, he could still resurrect his career.

His next destination remains unclear, but Tomlinson's legacy in San Diego is unparalleled.

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