Sports

Tomlinson: Brian Hoyer Could Be The Guy

Former running back LaDainian Tomlinson talked Browns football, offered advice to young football players.

Former NFL running back LaDainian Tomlinson thinks the Cleveland Browns are an improved team, especially with Brian Hoyer as its starting quarterback.

"I think Brian Hoyer could be the guy," Tomlinson said. "He's really shown tremendous poise."

Tomlinson was in at the Giant Eagle Market District in Solon Thursday, Oct. 3 to sign autographs. He played the bulk of his successful career, including an MVP award, for the San Diego Chargers. He is now an analyst for the NFL Network.

Tomlinson played for both Browns Head Coach Rob Chudzinski and Offensive Coordinator Norv Turner in San Diego and is excited about what they're doing in Cleveland.

"I love the wide open style they're bringing into the Browns offense," he said.

Tomlinson is no stranger to the Browns, a team he recalls passing over him in the 2001 NFL Draft, instead choosing Gerrard Warren. 

Even though the Browns have a major need at the running back spot, Tomlinson said he won't consider coming out of retirement.

"Going into my second year of retirement, I'm good at this point."

He was able to meet with a small group of local football players, taking the chance to offer advice to the next generation.

He challenged today's youth to "play for the love of the game," not the money or the fame. More importantly, he acknowledged the importance of caring about the guys in the locker room.

"You gotta work at it every single day. You have to continue to perfect your craft," Tomlinson said. "You have to treat every day like it's your last because it could be."


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