It's official, LaDainian Tomlinson is a New York Jet, agreeing to a two year deal Sunday. The deal will be for $5.2 million which could escalate to $5.7 million with certain incentives.
Tomlinson is expected to back up Shonn Greene in the Jets' run-heavy offense. The Jets chose not to pay Jones $5.8 million and did not match the Chiefs' offer for a similar contract to what Tomlinson got.
It begs the question, why Tomlinson over Jones? The front office clearly recognized his value as they took out a full page ad in the Kansas City star to thank him for his service. But the torch was passed to Shonn Greene late last season, and he was clearly going to be the starting back. The Jets are hoping Tomlinson can be more explosive and versatile than Jones, as LT is a better pass catcher and has shown a nose for the endzone in his career.
It remains to be seen whether or not the swap is the right move. Personally, I'm completely on board with it. While Jones was far better last season, the San Diego offensive line couldn't run block at all, so put him in front of a better offensive line (and Jones behind a worse one in Kansas City), and see how they do. Plus, he is a better complement to Greene because he is a much better receiver than Jones. Not to mention, the Jets' offense shares many qualities with San Diego's as Brian Schottenheimer is a former Charger assistant.
It also doesn't hurt bringing in a star to a brand new stadium. And it will sell some jerseys. Never underestimate that factor when it comes to bringing in a brand name like LT. I wonder how PSL sales are going...
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