There is an L.T in New York Once Again

Two years ago the Jets acquired a future Hall of Fame Quarterback. On Sunday they decided to sign a tailback who will one day be in Canton as well. Lawrence Taylor, the original LT, was once the king of New York. Now LaDainian Tomlinson will attempt to don the LT nickname in the Big Apple as well.

At first glance most would think LT is done. His numbers have been declining and he seems to be a shell of his former self. Thomas Jones had over 1400 yards last season while Tomlinson only had 730. Jones averaged 4.2 yards per carry and LT averaged an awful 3.3. The numbers suggest this is a substantial downgrade. Upon closer observation however it is obvious the Jets feel differently. Though Jones was great in 2009 he faded down the stretch, averaging under 3 yards per carry in 5 of the last 6 games. In the AFC championship game against Indianapolis, the Jets running game was finished the minute Jones took over for the injured Shonn Greene. Jones was due close to $6 million dollars next year in salary and bonuses next season. The Jets weren't willing to pay that for a player who appeared to be done only 2 months ago.

Even if you agree that it was smart for the Jets to dump Jones it is still fair to ask why they would replace him with another declining 30 plus year old running back. Before we criticize lets picture Tomlinson with the Jets this upcoming season. He will be playing with a vastly superior offensive line and he will not be expected to be "the guy" as he was in San Diego. LT is quicker, faster, and a much better receiving threat then Jones (Tomlinson has more career receptions then Jones, Leon, and Shonn Greene combined.) Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer became very familiar with LT during their days together in San Diego. He must of pushed hard for the Jets to sign his former co-worker. Tomlinson will be a part time player in New York and he will have the chance to flaunt whatever big play ability still remains in his 31 year old frame. The expectations will be small and the doubters will be many, but behind arguably the best offensive line in football LT will be given chances in the open field that he hasn't experienced in San Diego the last few years.

Nobody remembers that Emmit Smith ended his career as a Cardinal or that Franco Harris finished as a Seahawk. In 10 years no one will remember that LT was a Jet either. In 2010 however, his production will be meaningful and he will show that he has something left in the tank. Even if it doesn't work out it can't be worse then 2008 Brett Favre. Can it?