When you think of NFL running backs nowadays. There’s usually a two man or in some cases a trio of backs that teams will deploy. Gone are the days when teams will have one guy rush the ball over 30 times in a single game. LaDainian Tomlinson is perhaps the last of the great all-purpose running backs.
He finished third in total touchdowns behind only Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith. Fifth in career rushing yards. And second in rushing touchdowns. Oh, he also was the MVP in 2006 and holds the single season record for rushing touchdowns.
The accolades are quite impressive. His retirement means the end of the single back system. But to be honest the single back system hasn’t always been the norm. Remember the 1972 Miami Dolphins. They had three running backs in their rotation. So it’s not out of the question that another running back similar to Tomlinson will return.
However, the way the game is being played today is pass first, second and third. Running the ball is becoming an after thought almost. I say almost because you still need to control the ball at crucial points in the game.
To say that LaDainian Tomlinson isn’t a first ballot Hall of Famer is down right stupid. Those people who keep people out of the Hall of Fame for some pretty idiotic reasons should have no trouble voting Tomlinson in. There’s only two things that will blemish his legacy.
One is that he has no title. But then again many guys already in the Hall of Fame don’t. And two was the way he acted in that playoff game against the New England Patriots in which his quarterback Philip Rivers was playing with a torn ACL. Tomlinson being hurt as well was on the sidelines with his helmet on not interested in the game.
Even those two things shouldn’t keep him from getting in immediately. His overall record was simply great. He handled himself with class and dignity. He was a one of a kind talent. And he made many fantasy football owners very happy.
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