History of LaDainian Tomlinson in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 2, 2025

LaDainian Tomlinson, nicknamed "LT", is a former NFL running back renowned for his prolific career. Drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2001 after starring at TCU, he spent nine seasons with the team, achieving five Pro Bowl selections and two NFL rushing titles. In 2006, he was named NFL MVP, setting a single-season touchdown record. After two seasons with the New York Jets, Tomlinson retired and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017, solidifying his legacy as one of football's greatest running backs.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1981: Chuck Muncie's Four Touchdown Game in 1981

In 1981, Chuck Muncie had a four-touchdown game for the Chargers.

1981: Chuck Muncie's Franchise Record

In 1981, Chuck Muncie set a franchise record of 20 total touchdowns, a record that LaDainian Tomlinson broke.

1995: Tony Martin's Franchise Record

In 1995, Tony Martin set a franchise record with 90 receptions.

1995: Playoff Berth Since 1995

In 1995, the Chargers clinched the AFC West division, marking their first playoff appearance since 1995, ending an eight-year drought. Tomlinson contributed with 111 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the game.

1999: James Wins Rushing Titles

Edgerrin James won back-to-back rushing titles in 1999 and 2000.

2000: James Wins Rushing Titles

Edgerrin James won back-to-back rushing titles in 1999 and 2000.

2003: Strong Individual Performances in 2003 Season

During the 2003 season, despite the Chargers' struggles, LaDainian Tomlinson had several strong individual performances. He threw his first career touchdown pass, rushed for 187 yards in one game, and achieved 1,000 rushing yards and 100 receptions, setting a franchise record with 243 rushing yards in a game.

2003: All-Pro Selection and Offensive Player of the Year Nomination in 2003

In 2003, despite not being voted to the Pro Bowl, LaDainian Tomlinson was named a Second-team Associated Press All-Pro for the second consecutive season and was the runner-up for the AP Offensive Player of the Year Award.

2004: Draft Pick Philip Rivers

In 2004, Philip Rivers was drafted as the No. 4 overall pick.

2005: Brees' Shoulder Injury in 2005

At the end of the 2005 season, Drew Brees injured his shoulder, leading to changes in the quarterback position.

2005: Continued Success and Injury During the 2005 Season

In 2005, LaDainian Tomlinson continued his successful season, overcoming a loss against the Philadelphia Eagles where he gained only seven yards. He went on to have a four-touchdown game against the New York Jets and earned his third AFC Offensive Player of the Week nomination after a game against the Washington Redskins. He later sustained a rib injury.

2005: Record-Breaking Streak and Offensive Player of the Week Accolades in 2005

In 2005, LaDainian Tomlinson tied and broke the NFL record for consecutive games with a rushing touchdown. In Week 3, he had a standout performance, earning AFC Offensive Player of the Week. By Week 6, he tied Lenny Moore's NFL record and became the tenth player to run, catch, and throw for a touchdown in the same game, earning another AFC Offensive Player of the Week award.

2005: Alexander's Record in 2005

Shaun Alexander set a record of 28 touchdowns in 2005.

2006: Tomlinson's 2006 Statistics

In 2006, LaDainian Tomlinson led the league in rushing yards (1,474) and rushing touchdowns (15).

2006: Rivers Takes Over as Quarterback in 2006

In 2006, Philip Rivers took over as the starting quarterback for the Chargers after Drew Brees left in free agency.

2006: 2006 Playoffs

In 2006, the Chargers had a swift exit from the playoffs.

January 5, 2007: Tomlinson Named NFL MVP

On January 5, 2007, LaDainian Tomlinson was named the Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player for his record-breaking season.

February 12, 2007: Schottenheimer Fired in 2007

On February 12, 2007, Marty Schottenheimer was fired as the Chargers' head coach and was replaced by Norv Turner a week later.

July 11, 2007: Tomlinson Wins ESPY Awards

On July 11, 2007, LaDainian Tomlinson won four ESPY Awards, including Male Athlete of the Year.

2016: Tomlinson on Rivers in 2016

In a 2016 interview with ESPN, LaDainian Tomlinson suggested that the quarterback switch to Philip Rivers cost the San Diego Chargers a Super Bowl win due to Rivers' inexperience at the time.