There is no disputing the evidence that New York Jets and former San Diego Chargers‘ running back LaDainian Tomlinson is headed to the NFL Hall of Fame, but after suffering a knee injury in the last play against the New England Patriots could this spell the end of the L.T. we all knew and loved?
Knee injuries, the Patriots and Tomlinson all somehow all tie in together in his impressive NFL career.
In 2008 Tomlinson was highly scrutinized for missing most of the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots as he had just two carries and 5 yards in a loss. Just another example of the Chargers falling short the loss and absence of L.T. caused drama within the organization and fans.
Ironically, Tomlinson was hurt against the Patriots on the last play of the game. ESPN New York reported that Tomlinson was able to leave the Jets’ locker room under his own power but was walking with a noticeable limp.
“I’m all right,” Tomlinson told ESPN New York. “I’ll get some more tests done (Monday) and we’ll go from there. My leg got hit low and I grabbed my leg.”
Tomlinson has no structural damage and the MRI showed no torn ligaments in his knee but we know the history.
Drafted fifth overall in the 2001 NFL Draft out of TCU L.T. has had an impressive career but it hasn’t gone as smoothly as he would have liked. Controversy during and after his time with the San Diego Chargers and Philip Rivers have followed him to the Jets. Although it can be said that none of this would have happened if L.T. and company actually won a Super Bowl like many, including head coach Rex Ryan, think they should have.
L.T. may no longer start for the New York Jets but provides a strong veteran leadership and a solid third-down back. In his limited role, Tomlinson has 25 catches for 312 yards and a touchdown. He also has rushed for 167 yards and a touchdown.
Knowing the history of his knee problems it could be possible this spells the end for the future Hall of Fame player.
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