In the span of two days, two of the best running backs of the decade were released by their teams.
Former MVP and future Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson was dropped by the San Diego Chargers, while the Philadelphia Eagles cut one of the most versatile backs in recent memory in Brian Westbrook. Both had down years this past season. Tomlinson only averaged 3.3 yards per carry, while Westbrook was sidelined for eight weeks with an ankle injury and concusssions.
This in a common, ugly and logical story when it comes to the NFL. Unlike the other major sports, where teams make poor personnel decisions and are stuck paying huge salaries to scrubs, the contracts in the NFL don't have a lot of guaranteed money attached. That's how an MVP can go to unemployed in three years.
Now I am in the minority when I say I think Tomlinson still has something in the tank. While he is no longer elite, he was still very effective as a goal line back (12 TDs last season) and look at the line blocking for him last season. Tomlinson's O-line wasn't opening holes for anyone. They could pass protect as good as anyone, but they weren't getting any push in the rushing game. Darren Sproles, the other Charger running back, only had 343 yards and a 3.7 yard per carry.
Call me crazy or still in awe of Tomlinson's glory days, you know, back when it seemed as if the first guy to reach LT2 could never bring him down, but I think Tomlinson has two more years of 1,000 yard seasons if given the right chance. Now watch, he'll sign somewhere and not break 500 yards.
On the other hand, I think Westbrook should retire. The man has never started a whole season, and multiple concussions to a running back is just scary. I enjoyed watching him, but to me he needs to walk away and not risk permanent damage.
Billy Joel - I Go To Extremes
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