In a move that surprised precisely no-one, the San Diego Chargers have released LaDanian Tomlinson. This saves them a $2M roster bonus that was due last month and with Sproles becoming a free agent after being Franchised last year… we all new this was coming.

To me there are fewer things sadder in the NFL than the way Running Backs deteriorate so suddenly. Sure, it happens in other positions but these guys are often key and important players that are highly visible. Then, a few years later, they’re shadows of their former selves. The League is dotted with cases like this with Shaun Alexander being the most recent example – cut just over 2 years after signing a record-breaking deal. I watched Clinton Portis and Ladell Bett’s form this year with that same near-30 sinking feeling.

However, the whole affair seems to have been managed with some class and that’s something. The fact is that if he wants it, there’ll be a place for him on a team. No, he’s not an every down back, and his cuts and pace have slowed with his age, but there are plenty of teams who would be happy to have him as an impact player for a year or two.

Here at Mac, we’re wishing him luck whatever he turns his mind to.

Image Credit: SD Dirk