Where Does LT Belong

Today LaDanian Tomlinson’s tenure in San Diego came to a close. I always hate to see legendary players forced to go to another team, but that is how this business works. It is especially disheartening to know that LT, who gave the Chargers and their fans so much, had his last carry as a Charger met with boos…It’s a shame. Anyhow, San Diego’s loss is another team’s gain, but who could that be? In this article I will explore my ideas of potential landing spots for LT and in what capacity he would be most effective.

Many argue that the years are showing on LT and his tires are wearing. While that may be the case, I would not say that his decline in yardage was all his fault. Pro Bowl Center Nick Hardwick was gone most of the year and his absence hurt San Diego’s run blocking ability considerably. Also, Philip Rivers really came on this year and the Chargers switched gears to a passing team. LT also was hit with the injury bug early and most running backs are not nearly as effective as they can be when they are hurt. So, I would not say LT’s poor yardage was necessarily all his fault.

That being said, I do not necessarily think that you hand LT the keys to your franchise’s running game. I see parallels to LT’s situation to that of Jerome Bettis’ last years in Pittsburgh. For years Bettis was THE running back in Pittsburgh. As time wore on he became less effective as an every down back. However, as a third down back and particularly as a goaline/short yardage back….there was none better. Bettis provided a valuable situational role for Pittsburgh, while at the same time mentoring young Willie Parker. I remember watching a video of Bettis on the sideline telling Parker to stick to the middle and hit those lanes hard and fast. I see LT as a player who could fill that type of Bettis role. LT still had 12 touchdowns this year and most of them came in the goal line/red zone. LT could provide a considerable amount of guidance to any young running back while contributing as a Bettis type player. LT has a few years left and could make a big impact on the right team.

So the question becomes what team would LT make the largest impact on? One team I would like to see LT go to would be the Cleveland Browns. I am a big believer in history repeating itself and if Cleveland signs LT then they would be repeating it. Three years ago the Browns signed Jamal Lewis, a worn out elite who was believed to be done. Cleveland almost made the playoffs that year on Jamal Lewis’ back. LT could have a similar effect in Cleveland. Cleveland’s offensive line is the best part of that team. Cleveland appears to want a new QB and that new QB would benefit substantially having LT behind him. Also, LT is breaking records every game. That would get national attention and put people in the seats. LT could bring a lot of positive attention to a Cleveland team in desperate need of it.

Another team desperate for a solid running back…Detroit! With Kevin Smith’s week one status unknown, LT becomes a phenomenal option. If I was LT, I would not go to Detroit considering their oline and defense, but LT would bring a safety in the box and take one off of Calvin Johnson, who gets triple covered up and down the field. Detroit, although an unlikely spot, would benefit greatly from LT’s services.

LT says he wants to be a contender…well I have two darkhorse candidates that would be great landing spots for the future hall of famer. The first would be the Redskins. The Redskins had a great defense last year, but no offense. Clinton Portis is supposed to be coming back, but I am sure Shanahan would not mind bringing in LT and giving him Portis’ money…don’t forget that Shanahan dumped Portis once before. Shanahan has turned mediocre running backs into gods; imagine what he would be able to do with a running back of LT’s caliber. LT could provide veteran leadership to what is more than likely going to be a young offense. He would also take stress off of whoever Washington’s next QB will be. Washington’s offense could be renewed and could propel the Skins deep into the playoffs.

The other darkhorse contender….Pittsburgh! Although LTs price may be a bit high, if Tomlin really wants to commit to the power run, it would serve him well to bring on LT. Mendenhall has difficulty running in between the tackles. He always bounces out runs. It works, but it’s not power football and our line is not fast enough to support that type of running. However, LT could power run and mentor Mendenhall much in the way Bettis mentored Willie Parker. LT would fit in well with the Steelers, but his price would probably be higher than what the Rooneys are willing to pay.

There are plenty of other teams that could use LT’s services. I am just trying to point out places where he could have considerable impact that are not necessarily obvious. A reunion between Brees and Tomlinson is possible, but unlikely given Thomas’ Super Bowl performance (the guy did not know how to get tackled). Denver and the Patriots could definitely benefit from some red zone help. The Texans could use some veteran leadership, but seem opposed to adding any at running back. The point is, LT still has a lot in the tank and any team would be foolish to not entertain the idea of Tomlinson on their roster.