Tomlinson not feeling like 'ancient old man' at 30

Jun 26, 2009 - 1:39 PM By STEPHEN HAWKINS AP Sports Writer

FORT WORTH, Texas(AP) -- LaDainian Tomlinson laughs about the phone call he got on his 30th birthday this week from his younger brother, who referred to the Chargers' running back as an "ancient old man."

As for the thought that others might be ready to apply the same label, L.T. shows a sly grin.

"That's the one thing that I'm eager to prove, is that doesn't necessarily go for every player. Turn 30, that doesn't mean that you can't play any more," Tomlinson said Thursday, two days after his birthday. "There are some guys out there that defy the odds, and I'm eager to prove that."

The skeptics have their reasons to wonder about the 2006 NFL MVP, who has played all eight seasons in San Diego and got a reworked three-year deal in March.

Tomlinson is coming off a career-low 1,110 yards rushing, though that was still fourth in the AFC. Slowed by a toe injury most of last season, L.T. hurt his groin in the season finale. He was forced out of an overtime playoff victory against Indianapolis, then sat out the next week against Pittsburgh - the first time he missed a game in his career because of injury.

Tomlinson started offseason workouts in March and said he hasn't had any problems. The only change from past years is that he sees more doctors, including a therapist recommended by NFL career rushing leader Emmitt Smith.

"Just kind of making sure my body's in great shape, and making sure I'm as strong as possible," Tomlinson said. "I haven't missed any time, worked out every single day. ... I haven't had a setback at all."

Tomlinson said his energy level is still high and that he works out as hard as he always has. He insists there are no lingering aches and pains, and has even another reason to know that his legs are still good.

"I can still jump pretty high, can still dunk the basketball," the 5-foot-10 Tomlinson said. "If I can't dunk anymore, it's doing downhill."'

Tomlinson was taking a break from his football camp for kids at TCU, his alma mater. There is about a month before training camp opens, and 2 1/2 months before the season begins.

"It's almost like you want to go at it, you really want to start the season now," he said. "I can't tell you the feeling inside me about how I feel about it, but I read the magazines, see it on television and stuff. I'm just wondering what they are going to say whenever I go out and lead the league again, and win a Super Bowl."

A five-time Pro Bowler, Tomlinson owns or shares 28 Chargers team records. He has 11,760 yards rushing, 14th on the NFL career list, ranks second in touchdowns rushing (126) and is tied for fourth in total touchdowns (141).

Smith gained 5,789 of his 18,355 yards in the six seasons after he turned 30. So the record could still be in reach for Tomlinson.

Tomlinson needs 6,596 yards to pass the former Cowboys star. He said he has spoken at length with Smith about many things - but not the record.

"I don't think he wants to talk about that," Tomlinson said, smiling. "We talked about getting older and what's put on you after you turn 30 from everybody. Emmitt has eased my mind a bunch, just by some of the conversations that we've had."