Tomlinson and Merriman makes their comeback in Preseason Opener
The biggest question for the San Diego Chargers was LaDainian Tomlinson going to play in the preseason. After two seasons of not playing in the preseason, LT did make his 2009 season debut. Although Tomlinson only had 10-yards on four carries, LT did look good. Tomlinson also had one catch for eight yards.
But, the most important thing was that LT did not get injured. Another player that made his debut was Shawne Merriman. Last year, Merriman had his season end early due to having knee surgery.
Even though the San Diego Chargers lost to the Seattle Seahawks, 20-14, it was nice to see both LaDainian Tomlinson and Shawne Merriman back on the field. As the preseason goes on, we shall see if LaDainian Tomlinson and Shawne Merriman continue to play as they get ready for the regular season.
Why L.T. Should Not Play in the Preseason?
The only reason why LaDainian Tomlinson should not play in the preseason is because he could get injured and be lost for the whole season playing in a meaningless preseason game. On Saturday, the San Diego Chargers will play their first preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks. And, one of the biggest questions for the San Diego Chargers is whether or not L.T. should play in one of the Chargers’ four preseason games?
The biggest issue of playing L.T. in the preseason is that there is a huge risk of losing him for the entire season, if he plays and gets hurts. Some may argue that Tomlinson and the offensive-line need to get their timing down or the Chargers offense and L.T. need to get a feel for each other. But, it only takes one wrong move or one big hit and his season would be over.
Besides, the preseason means more of rookies and free-agents wanting to make the team. The preseason also is good for the quarterback to get his passing rhythm down with the offensive-line and wide-receivers. But, when you have a superstar running back and former NFL MVP, playing him in the preseason is not a good decision. Whether LaDainian Tomlinson plays or not is up to the coaches. But, the bottom-line is that the risk is not worth the reward.