LaDainian Tomlinson Out With Sprained Ankle

San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson has been ruled out of his team’s home opener against the Baltimore Ravens tomorrow. But before it seems like LT is hurt all the time, keep in mind this will only be the second time—albeit two of the past three games dating back to last season’s Divisional playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers—he has not been in the starting lineup in his NFL career since he was drafted by the Chargers eight years ago.

LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego Chargers / Image: Zuma Press

LT sprained his ankle in a 24-20 win over the Oakland Raiders last Monday night. He managed 55 yards on 13 carries with a touchdown before he was injured. But he’s been hobbled all week and didn’t participate in practice so his status was reduced to “out” for Week 2. Always the optimist, however, LT remained upbeat and said this ankle sprain was nothing like the toe and groin injuries that slowed him last season:

“The thing that I’m encouraged about is it’s not anything that’s going to keep me out for a long period of time. It’s frustrating, but it’s football. You get banged up ….. I think the true character of a person is when he’s up against adversity. I’m definitely at that point. Nobody wants to be hurt, but I’ve had some unfortunate things happen. At the same time, I’m still optimistic about this injury.”

Source: Chargers.com