Don't ask LaDainian Tomlinson what's next.
The 32-year-old back is set to become a free agent after two seasons with the Jets, where he played an integral role in the team's 2010 playoff run, only to watch the effort implode around him this year en route to a disappointing 8-8 season.
Is it a wrap for the almost-certain Hall of Fame back?
"I mean, man, that's a good question, honestly. I don't know as of now. I honestly don't," Tomlinson told San Diego's XEPRS-AM this week, via SportsRadioInterviews.com. "I am contemplating retirement. That's what I told my coaches and told my agent and everybody. That's exactly what it is. This is the first time in my playing career that I've actually honestly thought ... this may be it for me. That's kinda where I am right now."
If he does return, LT hasn't ruled out re-signing with the Jets, but considering the toxic aura within that locker room at the end of this season, he wants to be clear what the future holds in New York.
"I'm not going to say no and I can't say yes, either, because I have to wait and see what changes are made because there will be changes," Tomlinson said.
One team he's not ruled out? The Chargers -- his distant flagship -- the franchise for which he generated 12,490 yards and 138 touchdowns on the ground over nine mostly glorious seasons.
"Yeah," he said. "Absolutely would consider it. I would consider all teams. I'm going to listen to it and talk to the family about it. That doesn't mean I would take that offer, but I would consider it."
Taking into account how the Bolts surprised many by retaining coach Norv Turner and general manager A.J. Smith, it's too soon to rule out anything down in San Diego, but L.T.'s first order of business is deciding where he stands on one more NFL run.
