LaDainian Tomlinson is commonly viewed as one of the most explosive running backs in the NFL over the last 20 years.
He is a legend among fantasy football players, and he made a true impact for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Now, Tomlinson has been given a platform to speak about the current state of the league.
He recently appeared on the “I Am Athlete” podcast, discussing his top-five running backs of all time.
LaDainian Tomlinson (@LT_21) names his Top 5 RBs All Time ⤵️⁰⁰1. Jim Brown
2. Walter Payton
3. Emmitt Smith
4. Barry Sanders
5. Marshall FaulkSolid list? 👀⁰⁰Watch the full breakdown on #PaperRoute 📰 → https://t.co/qulI1lxgEv pic.twitter.com/s9i2t4ELGg
— I AM ATHLETE (@IAMATHLETEpod) August 24, 2023
Tomlinson’s list included Jim Brown, Walter Payton, Emmitt Smith, Barry Sanders, and Marshall Faulk.
This list has made its rounds across the internet, receiving mixed reviews.
Many of these backs are commonly included in top-five or top-ten lists, but Faulk could have been a surprising addition.
Lists of the best players of all time are hot topics for debate across NFL circles.
Many of these conversations hinge on how the league was when these players were active.
The NFL has transformed into a pass-first league.
As a result, this has devalued the running back market, a reason for the current controversy at the position.
Players like Brown, Payton, and Sanders were hardnosed backs that received significant touches per game.
Given the current standing of the running back position, the potential impact of these players in 2023 is unknown.
When these players were in the league, having an elite back was paramount, and they were often signed to longer-term deals than they are now.
Ultimately, these are the five players who impacted Tomlinson the most and players he looked up to when he crafted his game.
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