Jets news: LaDainian Tomlinson opens up about decision to sign with New York

While it initially appeared LaDainian Tomlinson would retire with the Chargers, the legendary rusher ultimately made his way to the New York Jets.

While it initially appeared longtime NFL running back LaDainian Tomlinson would retire as a member of the San Diego Chargers, the legendary rusher ultimately made his way to East Rutherford and the New York Jets. After spending nine memorable years as a member of the Chargers to begin his NFL tenure, Tomlinson then concluded his professional playing days with two go-rounds with the Jets in 2010-11 and 2011-12.

Because of his lengthy stint on the West Coast with the Chargers, Tomlinson recently made a point to explain exactly why he decided to sign with the Jets 10 years ago.

“The best decision I could have made was signing with the New York Jets at that time,” Tomlinson, now an analyst with NFL Network, told NFL.com this week. “I was able to bounce back with a good season. I helped my team get to the AFC Championship Game. I was featured in a national commercial. That season justified my decision to join Rex Ryan and the Jets — forgoing a deal with Minnesota — and that was a great feeling.”

Now a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a result of his efforts with both the Chargers and Jets, Tomlinson was a five-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro selection, an Offensive Player of the Year Award winner, Walter Payton Man of the Year and a league MVP. In 2006-07, Tomlinson infamously led the league in rushing yards with more than 1,800 in addition to scoring a whopping 28 touchdowns via the ground game.

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