Chargers release top running back Tomlinson

LOS ANGELES: LaDainian Tomlinson, who became one of the NFL's best running backs during a nine-year career, has been released by the San Diego Chargers, the team said on Monday.

The 30-year-old, who is San Diego's all-time rusher, had expected the move for some time since he was due a $2 million roster bonus on March 5. He would have earned $5 million in total salary this year.

"This is a part of the business that I hate," Chargers president Dean Spanos said on the team's website (www.chargers.com). "Change involving great players is never easy. I respect LT as much or more than any player I've ever known.