LaDainian Tomlinson Signs with Jets: Fantasy Value?
Posted by Kurt on Mar 14, 2010 in Fantasy Football
J-E-T-S Running Back LT
The New York Jets agreed to a two-year deal with former San Diego Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson on Sunday.
Tomlinson, a certain Hall of Fame back who lost carries (and games) to injury over the past couple seasons, brings a veteran to the Jets backfield to replace the departed Thomas Jones (who signed with the Kansas City Chiefs).
What does this mean to fantasy owners?
It clearly labels Shonn Greene the future feature back in New York, but the terms of the deal indicate that the majority of the carries will likely go to Tomlinson. Now, whether that majority is 70 percent or 51 is yet to be determined, but Tomlinson brings an exceptional amount of experience and skill to the Jets backfield.
Greene racked up 540 yards on 108 carries in 2009, scoring just two touchdowns in a backup role behind Jones. Tomlinson had 730 yards on 223 carries with 12 touchdowns in San Diego. The Jets still have a solid offensive line in place, and will look to replace Jones’ 331 carries, 1,402 yards and 14 touchdowns from some combination of these two backs. The combination of Greene and Tomlinson could match the Jets’ 2009 total of over 1,900 yards again in 2010.
This move should increase the values or Tomlinson, Greene and quarterback Mark Sanchez for 2010.
I think this was a bad deal on the Jets part. If they were merely going to sign another veteran back, why cut Jones whop has been outperforming Tomlinson anyway? The plan is to make Greene “the guy” this year. I think LT will get more than simply a back up role, which is why he chose the Jets over the A.P. led Vikings, but I have to believe Greene is the featured back entering the season.
If Tomlinson gets the same 200-225 carries and between 800-1,000 total, all purpose yards, it’s a good deal for the Jets. Greene might get the bulk of the carries, but he was a non-factor in the passing game last year. I honestly see both guys getting into the neighborhood of 1,000 total yards, with LT’s being a nice mix of rush/rec and Greene being mostly on the ground.