LaDanian Tomlinson Is Still A Charger

RB LaDanian Tomlinson has renegotiated his contract with the Chargers, ensuring that he'll be coming back with them next season.

Team president Dean Spanos knew how important this deal was.

"This is a good day for the Chargers and for Chargers fans," Spanos said in a statement. "It was important to me to get this done so L.T. could continue his career here in San Diego where he means so much to our team, our fans and our community. The alternative was just unthinkable. He belongs in San Diego."

Tomlinson had been due $24 million over the next three seasons, including $6,725,000 in 2009. His salary cap number would have been $8.8 million in 2009, including a prorated share of the signing bonus from his 2004 contract.

It's a smart move for the Chargers (who weren't going to find anybody good enough to replace him) and a smart move for Tomlinson (who isn't getting any younger).

Tomlinson returns as the Chargers RB1 and a possible first round fantasy draft pick.  I say "possible" primarily because his continuing injury problems are a cause for concern.  Another reason is that since the Chargers used their franchise tag on Darren Sproles, he'll be back this season as well -- taking carries away from LT. 

Tomlinson was the "nearly consensus" choice as player to take with the #1 overall pick in your fantasy draft, but in 2009 I'm not even sure he's a first rounder.