Why the Chargers Should Keep LaDainian Tomlinson in San Diego

I'm sure by now you've heard the rumors involving San Diego and their All-Pro Running Back, LaDainian Tomlinson.

Could it be that Tomlinson, a for-sure future Hall of Famer, could be leaving his eight-year home in San Diego?

To be honest, I have no clue.

I have no clue what the Chargers are thinking. I have no clue what anyone in that organization is thinking. I can't even picture LT in a different uniform. Can you?

Tomlinson gained a career low in rushing this season with 1,110 yards. He also ran for his second fewest amount of touchdowns since he's arrived in San Diego.

Is it that LaDainian Tomlinson is aging too quickly, or the number of injuries are taking a toll on the 29-year-old's body?

Let me say this. This guy is not washed up. Not even close.

Did anyone take into consideration that LT has rushed 292 times this season? That's a career low. The Chargers are also not establishing a passing game in LT's favor like they have in the past. Tomlinson brought in 52 receptions this season, which ranked second lowest in his career.

I admit, the guy is dealing with injuries. But who hasn't?

Anyone else who runs for 1,110 yards and 11 touchdowns is a big deal. But not LT.

Everyone expects more from him because he is, in fact, LaDainian Tomlinson.

The guy has never had a season less than 1,100 yards. He's scored double-digit touchdowns every year of his career. He has never caught less than 51 catches in a season, either.

Tomlinson has ran for over 1,400 yards in five of his eight seasons. Sounds pretty good to me.

So injuries have slowed down Tomlinson a little. But doesn't the decrease in LT's yards have something to do with the defenses he plays against? A team doesn't prepare for the San Diego Chargers, they prepare for LaDainian Tomlinson.

He is the reason Philip Rivers is excelling at the quarterback position. He is the reason Vincent Jackson went over 1,000 yards receiving this year.

Take Tomlinson out of the offense and see how well Rivers does. See how many yards Vincent Jackson puts up. See how many wins the Chargers get.

Chargers Replacement: Darren Sproles

Sproles reminds me more of a returner or a receiver than an NFL starting running back.

Granted, Sproles had a stellar game against Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the playoffs. But what did Sproles do in the following game? He ran the ball 11 times for 15 yards.

He is not NFL running back material whatsoever.

I don't know if Tomlinson will actually depart from San Diego following the season, but I do know one thing.

San Diego, if you do let him go, you might be letting go of the best running back ever to play the game.

Be smart. Keep LT.