It was an emotional day for former Chargers star running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who was released from the team on Monday after nine memorable, record-setting years.

LaDainian Tomlinson spoke for the first time

today about leaving the Chargers.

^Chargers.com

Tomlinson held a press conference at the Maderas Golf Club to say goodbye to the Chargers fans and the community that he has been so closely tied to since first donning a Chargers uniform.

“I can't put into words what it meant to me to play in this city and be a part of this community for nine years,” says Tomlinson. “To the fans: Thank you very much. I am really going to miss that special bond we had...”

Tomlinson then thanked his wife, LaTorsha, for her support and was overcome with emotions. For several moments he was unable to talk as tears streamed down his face.

“I have always worn my emotions on my sleeve,” says Tomlinson.

“The team has obviously changed a lot,” is the only explanation Tomlinson gave for his release.

He referred to the Chargers move away from the rushing game to a pass-first offense over recent seasons. Tomlinson would not place the blame on current head coach Norv Turner but he did point out, “Since Marty [Schottenheimer left], every single year my numbers have dropped.”

Tomlinson made it clear he plans to continue playing, perhaps as many as four more years. “This is not the end of the road at all," he says. "I am not retiring.”

It was an emotional day for LT.

^{Photo by Dan McLellan}

At this point Tomlinson has two unrealized goals: to become the NFL’s all-time rushing leader and to win a Super Bowl.

He may not have an opportunity to pursue both, as most of the truly competitive teams in the NFL have offenses centered on a great quarterback.

Tomlinson knows what he wants most. “The thing that drives me is that I have never even been to a Super Bowl, let alone won a championship.”

At 30, with declining numbers and a narrow field of teams to choose from, Tomlinson may not have many suitors. But he is still optimistic.

“I am excited about the future because for the first time I have an opportunity to see what is out there,” he says.

Early rumors suggest the New England Patriots or the New Orleans Saints could be where Tomlinson lands. Saints quarterback and former Tomlinson teammate Drew Brees posted on Twitter: “I would love to get LT in the black and gold. Crazier things have happened.” Tomlinson confirmed that he has spoken to Brees, but would not convey the nature of the conversation.

One thing that will give Chargers fans some peace of mind is that Tomlinson did rule out becoming an Oakland Raider. Tomlinson also reassured the community of San Diego that he and LaTorsha plan to keep their Touching Lives Foundation active here.

Tomlinson says he will retire as a Charger. He confirmed that Dean Spanos has already spoken to him about receiving at least a one-day contract at the end of his career, whenever that should be.