Ladainian Tomlinson : 2001 Draft Day Picks

LaDainian Tomlinson was born on June 13, 1979 inschool, he was overlooked by quite a few schools.
Rosebud, Texas. It was apparent early on in lifeThis led him to Texas Christian University where
that Tomlinson, or LT as he is called now, washe would soon blossom into one of the best
going to be a great athlete. Not only did herunning backs in the entire country. While he split
always have the size and athleticism to competetime in the backfield during his first two seasons,
at a high level, but he also exhibited a high level ofas a junior he broke out. During this season he
knowledge of the game as well. With all of thisscored 18 touchdowns, rushed for 1,850 yards,
put together, it was only a matter of time untiland put up 406 rushing yards in a single game.
Tomlinson began to show the world what he wasTomlinson did more of the same his senior season
made of.by rushing for 22 touchdowns and more than
Tomlinson played high school sports at University2,100 yards.
High School. Not only was he a standout player onWith the 5th pick of the 2001 NFL Draft the San
the football field, but he also played baseball andDiego Chargers selected Tomlinson. He got off to
basketball as well. During his senior season in higha quick start during his rookie season by rushing
school he rushed for more than 2,500 yards andfor 1,236 yards and 10 touchdowns. Each year
39 touchdowns. This led to several awardssince, Tomlinson has rushed for more than 1,300
including second team all state, and the districtsyards and scored more than 13 touchdowns. His
most valuable player.best season yet came in 2006 when he finished
Although Tomlinson put up big numbers in highwith more than 1,800 yards and 31 touchdowns.