Vikings entertain former Charger Tomlinson

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. - LaDainian Tomlinson visited the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday to discuss joining Adrian Peterson in what would be a big-name backfield.

Tomlinson arrived in the Twin Cities on Wednesday night and dined with Vikings officials. He had more meetings scheduled for Thursday to talk about how he would fit in with the Vikings.

Minnesota lost backup running back Chester Taylor to the Bears, so the Vikings need an experienced, versatile player behind the all-pro Peterson. Tomlinson's ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and fill in as a capable pass blocker on third downs makes him an ideal fit.

Tomlinson's agent, Tom Condon, was also in town, both for Tomlinson's visit and to attend the trial of his client Kevin Williams against the NFL for his suspension.

The two sides had not agreed on a deal as of Thursday afternoon.

"I'm sure he wants to know what our vision is for him and then our sense for him is, will he fit? From a mindset standpoint, from a physical standpoint, from a systems standpoint," Vikings coach Brad Childress said Wednesday about the visit.

Tomlinson was released by the Chargers in February after nine brilliant seasons in San Diego. After being drafted in 2001, Tomlinson skyrocketed to stardom with the Chargers and entrenched himself as the most complete running back of his era. He ranks eighth on the NFL's all-time rushing list with 12,490 yards. His 138 career rushing touchdowns rank second, and his 153 total touchdowns rank third.

But he never reached a Super Bowl in San Diego and age and injuries started to take their toll in recent seasons. Tomlinson will turn 31 in June and is coming off the least productive season of his career. He had 730 yards rushing on 223 carries for an average of 3.3 yards per carry, all career lows. He still managed to score 12 touchdowns, but his role was reduced in an offense that shifted its focus to Philip Rivers and the passing game.