San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson, right, is eighth all-time in NFL rushing yards. (Paul Sakuma/Associated Press)LaDainian Tomlinson says he believes he has played his last game as a San Diego Charger.
The running back told The San Diego Union-Tribune on Thursday that he has thought for a while he would be let go by the Chargers.
His comments come after more than a month of saying he did not know what would happen.
The NFL's most valuable player in 2006 has two years remaining on his contract. He is due a $2 million US roster bonus on March 5 and would be paid $5 million in total salary in 2010.
Tomlinson, who'll turn 31 before next season, told the newspaper that he doesn't know when the Chargers will release him and that his agent, Tom Condon, might call the club to expedite the process.
Condon didn't immediately respond to a phone message from The Associated Press.
Team spokesman Scott Yoffe declined to comment.
The Rosebud, Texas, native has rushed for 12,490 yards, the most of any active player and the eighth best all-time. He has rushed for 138 touchdowns, second only to Emmitt Smith (164).
He has become one of the most beloved athletes in San Diego history during a nine-year career but his production and speed have been decreasing.
Tomlinson had 730 yards on 223 carries for an average of 3.3 yards per carry this past season, all career lows. He missed two games with a sprained ankle.
The Chargers were criticized by many football observers last month for continuing to turn to Tomlinson in their playoff loss to the New York Jets even after it seemed apparent that he wasn't effective. Tomlinson rushed 12 times for just 24 yards and caught three passes for no gain.
It was the latest playoff disappointment for the team and player. Tomlinson has gained just 341 yards on the ground in seven playoff games, averaging just 3.4 yards per carry.
With files from CBCSports.ca
