The offseason puff pieces have been written, complete with references to quieting the “critics” and the “haters.” The talk about whether LaDainian Tomlinson is still the “best back in the league” is now old news.
Just one day after the season opener, Tomlinson is once again fighting a battle against father time that running backs over 30 years old rarely win.
Tomlinson is not expected to practice Wednesday after hurting his ankle, which isn’t surprising. The San Diego Union-Tribune believes that Tomlinson’s status against the Ravens will come down to a game-time decision.
Look, we’re not going to bury Tomlinson just because he’s hurt going into Week Two. But his inability to stay healthy is a trend, and it’s one that usually doesn’t improve with age.
Chargers coach Norv Turner spoke earlier in the offseason about getting Tomlinson 320 carries this season, but all parties may be better off with a reduced workload.
Tomlinson may not give Turner a choice.