Who Is LaDainian Tomlinson? Age, Biography and Wiki
LaDainian Tomlinson, born on June 23, 1979, is a former American football running back renowned for his outstanding performance in the NFL. After a prolific career with the San Diego Chargers and the New York Jets, Tomlinson has transitioned into broadcasting and philanthropic endeavors. As of 2025, he is 45 years old and continues to be an influential figure in sports.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 23, 1979 |
| Age | 45 Years |
| Birth Place | Rosebud, Texas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
LaDainian Tomlinson's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing around 221 pounds during his playing days, Tomlinson was known for his powerful running style and agility. His athleticism allowed him to dominate many games, making him one of the most celebrated running backs in NFL history. While his measurements have changed since retirement, he remains committed to fitness and health.
San Diego changed starting quarterbacks in 2006. Brees had injured his shoulder in the 2005 finale; after negotiations for a new contract with Chargers general manager A. J. Smith broke down, Brees was allowed to leave in free agency, paving the way for 2004 No. 4 overall draft pick Philip Rivers to take over.
Tomlinson spoke positively about Rivers in the leadup to the season, saying, "He's going to be a great quarterback because the intangibles he has are what the great ones have." However, Tomlinson would suggest in a 2016 interview with ESPN that the switch cost San Diego a Super Bowl win, stating that Rivers was too inexperienced at the time.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
LaDainian Tomlinson is married to his long-time partner, LaToshia Tomlinson. The couple has been together for several years and shares three children. While they maintain a relatively private family life, they often express their commitment to each other and their family through public appearances and social media. As of 2025, LaDainian's relationship status remains strong and supportive.
His mother worked as a preacher; his father left the family when Tomlinson was seven years old. Tomlinson did not see his father very often afterward. He grew up with a brother and a sister and later, also a half-sister and three half-brothers. At age nine, Tomlinson joined the Pop Warner Little Scholars football program and scored a touchdown the first time he touched the ball.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, LaDainian Tomlinson's estimated net worth is approximately $70 million. This impressive figure is attributed to his successful NFL career, lucrative endorsement deals, and various business ventures. After retiring from football, Tomlinson has explored several avenues, including sports analysis, which continue to contribute to his wealth.
The offseason began with contract negotiations for Tomlinson, as Smith and Spanos hoped to restructure his existing contract and free up more salary cap space. Relations between Smith and Tomlinson were strained throughout the process.
Smith was reported to have been angered when Tomlinson revealed the full extent of his injury before the Divisional Round game against Pittsburgh the prior season. When Tomlinson release a statement expressing his desire to remain in San Diego, Smith appeared to mock him when he responded to an interview question using very similar wording.
Smith later apologized to Tomlinson, and the two sides came to an agreement on a restructured version of his three-year contract on March 10. Tomlinson said in another statement, "My heart has always been in San Diego. I couldn't imagine putting on another uniform."
Career, Business, and Investments
LaDainian Tomlinson was drafted 5th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 2001 NFL Draft. Throughout his illustrious career, he accumulated numerous records, including being a two-time NFL rushing yards leader and the 2006 NFL MVP. Upon retiring, he took on roles as a sports analyst and commentator, providing insights into the game he loves.
In addition to his media career, Tomlinson has made significant investments in various ventures, including sports-related businesses and charitable foundations. He is also known for his involvement in community service and youth programs, particularly focused on education and health.
LaDainian Tarshane Tomlinson (born June 23, 1979), nicknamed "LT", is an American former professional football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 11 seasons. After a successful college football career with the TCU Horned Frogs, the San Diego Chargers selected him as the fifth overall pick in the 2001 NFL draft.
He spent nine years with the Chargers, earning five Pro Bowl appearances, three Associated Press first-team All-Pro nominations, and two NFL rushing titles. Tomlinson was also voted the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2006 after breaking the record for touchdowns in a single season.
He played two further seasons with the New York Jets, before retiring. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.
Social Network
LaDainian Tomlinson is active on several social media platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, where he engages with fans and shares insights about his life and career. His online presence allows him to inspire and connect with both younger athletes and long-time fans alike.
Tomlinson scored consistently throughout the season, with either one or two touchdowns in fourteen games, including a twelve-game streak from weeks 4 to 16. He again had a big performance against the Oakland Raiders, rushing 37 times for 164 yards and a touchdown during a 23–17 victory in week 10.
San Diego clinched the AFC West division in week 15, with a 21–0 win in the snow over the Cleveland Browns; it was their first playoff berth since 1995, ending an eight-year drought. Tomlinson, who rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns in the game, said, "I've only been here four years, but in some ways it feels like eight.
To go from where we were to this is awesome. I've dreamed of the playoffs for a long time, but it's only been a dream."
Education
LaDainian Tomlinson attended Texas Christian University (TCU), where he earned a degree in communications. His time at TCU was foundational for his football career, as he set numerous records for the school before making his mark in the NFL. Tomlinson’s education continues to play a significant role in his post-football career, particularly in broadcasting and community outreach.
A native of Rosebud, Texas, Tomlinson showed athletic promise while attending University High School. He was recruited by Texas Christian University (TCU). As a junior, Tomlinson rushed for 406 yards in a single game, a Division I record at the time.
As a senior, he earned unanimous All-American honors, and won the Doak Walker Award as the best college running back. TCU retired his No. 5 in 2005, and he was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
