Chargers’ Tomlinson expected out vs. Steelers
The strained groin of San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson is “not any worse” after LT played limitedly in Saturday’s win over the Indianapolis Colts, but Tomlinson is not expected to play in Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh and very likely for not the remainder of the playoffs should the Chargers pull the upset.
“I’m worried about my health. I’m very concerned,” Tomlinson said.
San Diego has opened as a 6-point underdog against the Steelers on WagerWeb.com.
“He might be able to play in another week if we were able to go on,” coach Norv Turner said. “Or maybe he could play in another week after that.”
Turner said that Tomlinson will be evaluated again Wednesday. Tomlinson missed practice all last week but was able to suit up against the Colts, rushing for 25 yards and one touchdown in the first half before he was pulled for good. Darren Sproles rescued the team with 23 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns. LT will be kept on the 53-man roster just in case the team advances to the AFC title game.
“I think they said he was pretty sore around that area from probably compensating for the injury,” Turner said. “It was obvious once he got going, to him and us, that he would not be able to play the way that he’d like to. At halftime, they worked on him and tried to get him where he could go in the second half. It just wasn’t going to happen.”
Michael Bennett, who was active for the first time Saturday after being picked up Nov. 12, carried four times for 24 yards against the Colts and likely will get more work in Pittsburgh. Turner added that he he would closely monitor Sproles’ reps this week in practice to ensure he will be rested and ready for Sunday’s matchup at Pittsburgh. Sproles just made millions of dollars with his huge effort last week; he is due to become a free agent after the season. You can bet LT’s recent injury troubles will factor into San Diego’s chances of keeping Sproles.
Tight end Antonio Gates (ankle) is expected to play against Pittsburgh, as is kicker Nate Kaeding (thigh, groin), linebacker Brandon Siler, who missed the last two games with a foot injury, defensive end Luis Castillo (groin) and center Nick Hardwick (shoulder).
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