Former San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this summer. He’s among the greatest players at that position in NFL history. He’s also just 37 with a whole life ahead of him.
None of this is stopping Tomlinson from getting back to the football grind. The two-time rushing champion was named special assistant to the owner for the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday.
“L.T. is one of the most beloved and iconic Chargers of all time,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said, via the team’s official website. “His active involvement in our fight for Los Angeles is vital, and he represents the very best of what it means to be a Charger on the field and in the community.”
What Tomlinson will be doing remains anyone’s guess. It’s possible this is nothing more than a ceremonial role for the former running back. Then again, knowing L.T., it’s highly likely that he will want to hit the ground running on his new job.
There’s definitely a lot of ways the Chargers could use one of the most iconic players in franchise history, especially as they transition from San Diego to Los Angeles.
“I’ve always told Dean, ‘Look, if there is any way I can help this organization, let me know. I’m more than willing to be there and help in the community. Whatever you need.’ Over time we’ve talked about it and what it would look like, and it evolved into this role I’m eager to take on,” Tomlinson said in the team’s press release.
Tomlinson played for the Chargers from 2001-09, putting up 16,445 total yards and 162 touchdowns while earning five Pro Bowl trips in the process.