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.
