We are ranking the Top 10 All-Time Best NFL Offensive Players from Texas high school football. This list is based solely on each player’s NFL career — MVPs, total stats, All-Pro teams, Super Bowl wins, and Pro Bowl selections.
Landing at #4 is LaDainian Tomlinson. The Rosebud, Texas native redefined the running back position with a dazzling blend of speed, power, and versatility. Few players in NFL history have been as dominant — or as consistently brilliant — as LT at his peak. Tomlinson’s NFL MVP, record-breaking seasons, and Hall of Fame career easily earn him a place among football’s immortals.
Early Life and High School Career
Born LaDainian Tarshane Tomlinson in Rosebud, Texas, Tomlinson faced early adversity after his father left when he was young. He developed his love for football early, scoring a touchdown the first time he touched the ball in Pop Warner leagues.
At University High School in Waco, Texas, Tomlinson became a multi-sport star, excelling in football, track, basketball, and baseball. As a senior, he rushed for 2,554 yards and 39 touchdowns, earning District MVP and Super Centex Offensive Player of the Year honors. His incredible production made him one of the top running back recruits in Texas.
College Career at TCU
Tomlinson stayed close to home, choosing Texas Christian University (TCU), where he helped resurrect a struggling program. After splitting time early in his career, he broke out as a junior, rushing for 1,850 yards, including an NCAA-record 406 yards in a single game against UTEP.
As a senior, he dominated again, running for 2,158 yards and 22 touchdowns. Tomlinson earned unanimous All-American honors, won the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s top running back, and finished fourth in Heisman voting. TCU retired his No. 5 jersey, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
NFL Career and Achievements
Tomlinson’s NFL career with the Chargers and Jets is one of the most decorated ever:
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NFL MVP (2006)
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5× Pro Bowl Selection
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3× First-Team All-Pro
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2× NFL Rushing Champion (2006, 2007)
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NFL’s single-season TD record holder (31 in 2006)
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Over 13,600 rushing yards (5th all-time)
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145 rushing touchdowns (2nd all-time)
Drafted 5th overall by the San Diego Chargers in 2001, Tomlinson immediately became the centerpiece of their offense. He recorded over 1,200 rushing yards in each of his first seven seasons, a streak matched only by Eric Dickerson.
Tomlinson’s 2006 season was one for the ages: he rushed for 1,815 yards, caught 56 passes for over 500 yards, and set NFL records with 28 rushing touchdowns and 31 total touchdowns — a feat that earned him the league’s MVP and Offensive Player of the Year awards.
In addition to his rushing and receiving prowess, Tomlinson threw seven career touchdown passes, showcasing his incredible versatility. He also became the fastest player in NFL history to reach 100 and 150 career touchdowns.
After nine seasons with the Chargers, Tomlinson spent two final seasons with the New York Jets, helping them reach the AFC Championship Game.
Legacy
LaDainian Tomlinson retired as one of the most productive and respected running backs in NFL history. His accolades include:
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5th in career rushing yards (13,684)
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2nd in career rushing touchdowns (145)
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3rd in total touchdowns (162)
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5th in career yards from scrimmage (18,456)
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017, his first year of eligibility. The Chargers retired his No. 21 jersey the same year.
Tomlinson’s impact extended beyond stats. He inspired a generation of players with his combination of professionalism, work ethic, and highlight-reel performances. His dark visor, signature teardrop touchdown celebration, and graceful running style made him one of the most recognizable athletes of his era.
Even years after retirement, Tomlinson remains active in the football world as an NFL Network analyst and a special assistant to the Chargers’ ownership group.
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NFL MVP (2006)
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NFL record 31 total TDs in a season
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5th all-time in rushing yards
LaDainian Tomlinson’s electric combination of records, awards, and game-changing ability — plus his Texas roots — make him a no-brainer at #4 among the greatest offensive players from Texas high school football.
