Los Angeles Chargers fans all know how great LaDainian Tomlinson is. But how high would you put him compared to the all-time greats? The latest ranking of the top running backs in NFL history for the 33rd Team, Dan Pizzuta put him ahead of Barry Sanders, Marshall Faulk, and Eric Dickerson.
Pizzuta ranked Tomlinson 3rd, behind just Jim Brown and Walter Payton. Here is what Pizzuta wrote about him;
“Some backs can be great in the open field. Others excel in tight spaces. Some are better as receivers. LaDainian Tomlinson had all of that. He might be the best all-around back, given those traits.
He had three seasons of at least 2,000 yards from scrimmage and led the league in rushing twice. His 2006 MVP season featured 31 total touchdowns, which is still a record. Tomlinson also served as one of the league’s best goal line backs, with the power to run through the line and the athleticism to leap over it.”
Los Angeles Chargers Great By The Numbers
Looking at Tomlinson as what some would call a ‘traditional running back’ would make some question Pizzuta’s high ranking. He sits at a Hall of Fame worthy, 7th in carer rushing yards. His best single season, 2006, is the 18th best all-time. But as Pizzuta points out, Tomlinson could do it all. He is third all-time behind Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith in career touchdowns and is 6th in yards from scrimmage. His single-season marks in these stats are 1st (2006) and 5th all-time.
Many running back rankings from the past may have overlooked the importance of a triple-threat backfielder but as the game has continued to evolve toward passing it is evident how unique a player like Tomlinson is and proof that he was a talent ahead of his time.
