LaDainian Tomlinson gives Ryan Mathews advice: Don’t hold out for contract
By Mike Dyce
San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews is heading into the final year on his contract. Fortunately for him he is coming off his best season statistically, in 2013 he rushed for a career-high 1,255 yards with six touchdowns.
Unfortunately for Mathews, he turns 27 in October and is inching towards that dreaded perceived 30-year-0ld expiration date on running backs. He could be tempted to hold out to land a lucrative contract, but former Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson is advising Mathews to do the opposite.
“It is a tough spot, but you know what, you cannot think about that,” Tomlinson said. “Like me, I never thought about money when I played. You just can’t bring (in) that part of the game of thinking about money. You have to keep it as organic as possible. You play it just as a kid. …
“My advice to Ryan would be just to ball out like he did this past season, and everything will take care of itself. You go to everything in the offseason. You prove your worth to the team by being there, not by being absent.”