LaDainian Tomlinson Released by the Chargers

The NFL's eighth leading rusher of all time is now on the open market. The San Diego Chargers cut ties with future Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson after nine seasons. The cost cutting move doesn't come as a complete surprise as Tomlinson was due to receive a $2 million bonus on March 5.

Tomlinson's production has dipped the last couple of years. The 2009 season was the first time that he didn't eclipse 1000 yards, rushing for only 730 yards. He hasn't been the receiving target he once was either, only having 20 receptions in 2009. His carries were slowly being taken away and given to the younger Darren Sproles.

The fifth pick in the 2001 NFL draft, Tomlinson played his college ball at Texas Christian. The pick was received from the Atlanta Falcons a trade for the top pick in 2001, which was eventually used to select quarterback Michael Vick. Tomlinson established himself right away, rushing for over 1,200 yards in his rookie season. In the 2002 season he would rack up 1,683 rushing yards and make the first of his five Pro Bowls. In 2003 Tomlinson had an impressive 2370 yards from scrimmage, 1645 rushing and 725 receiving. He also had 100 receptions that season. In 2004 he led the league with 17 rushing touchdowns.

Tomlinson's best season was in 2006 when he won the NFL MVP award. He rushed for 1815 yards and 28 touchdowns, while also compiling 508 receiving yards and 3 touchdown receptions. His 28 rushing touchdowns in 2006 is still an NFL record for a season. He led the NFL in rushing in both 2006 and 2007.

As impressive as his on the field numbers are he was also very active in the San Diego community. He was the 2006 co-winner, along with Drew Brees, of the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year award given for a player's charity and volunteer work as well as for his excellence on the field. Tomlinson's Touching Lives Foundation has education programs that help out less fortunate families.

Tomlinson leaves the Chargers as the NFL's second leading all time touchdown rusher with 138, only 26 behind leader Emmitt Smith. At 30 years old Tomlinson is not ready to retire and has expressed interest in hooking on with a new team for the 2010 season hoping for a shot at a Super Bowl title.