LaDainian Tomlinson to rest for San Diego Chargers’ final preseason game

LaDainian Tomlinson warming up (Photo from 'SD Dirk' via Flickr)

By Paul Arnold

Let’s face it, watching a preseason game in the NFL is a lot like watching paint dry; just a bit noisier. The players just want it to be over so they can get to the regular season (unless you’re a rookie on the bubble). The starters are just trying to stay healthy. The coaches are taking some last looks at players to see where they may (or may not) fit. So needless to say, the levels of intensity and execution leaves a bit to be desired. However, in the stratosphere of arrogance in the NFL and its owners, preseason games have provided a nice revenue pop, so the normal preseason of four games continues to be in place.

That’s why, after starting the first two exhibitions in the preseason (albeit sparingly) for the first time in many years, head coach Norv Turner yesterday confirmed what most people had already assumed; that ‘LT’ will not play in Friday night’s exhibition finale against San Francisco. Tomlinson sat out last Saturday’s loss at Atlanta.

Turner also stated that most other starters will be in for 10 to 15 plays and says it’s also highly unlikely that running back return specialist Darren Sproles will play Friday. Sproles has touched the ball only 16 times in the exhibition season including returns, runs and passes; a number that Turner feels is enough for Sproles to get ready for the Sept. 14 regular-season opener at Oakland.