LT vs. A.J. Smith (2 Viewers)

[Avery]

The debate isn't is LT classy or not, the debate is if AJ is an ##### or not. Right now he looks like on in my eyes.

I get what you're saying. It's nice to think that your guys are the good guys. I think it's a good approach to respect character over gamesmanship, but I don't think A.J. shares that sense of priorities. Smith seems like the kind of guy who is going to do or say anything that is going to get him the best players for the lowest sum he can. Looking at the win-loss column and the number of Pro-Bowlers on the roster, he is probably doing a better than average job in that department. He probably feels this is more in line with his job description than being meek and humble. Does it make him look good in the press? No, he looks like a bully and a *******. Does he get results? More often than not. Is this particular strategy going to pay off for him? Maybe not, but if the eventual outcome means his team wins more games, he'll probably be satisfied with that. I doubt Bill Belicheck loses too much sleep over the knocks to his reputation of character either. For these kind of guys, the bottom line is just that.

The knock on Bellichek's character has nothing to do with embarrassing his franchise player.Smith seems like a guy that acts and speaks out of emotion calling players or coaches that he perceives have wronged him in one way or another to the media rather than handling his job like a professional. Furthermore, I don't know how willfully embarrassing LT is going to get him the best players at a discounted price going forward. Seems short sighted and emotional to me.

 

[Despyzer]

The knock on Bellichek's character has nothing to do with embarrassing his franchise player.

So?

Smith seems like a guy that acts and speaks out of emotion calling players or coaches that he perceives have wronged him in one way or another to the media rather than handling his job like a professional. Furthermore, I don't know how willfully embarrassing LT is going to get him the best players at a discounted price going forward. Seems short sighted and emotional to me.

This response didn't seem emotional to me. It seemed more like it was response that he had already planned out. The impression it sends is that he's a guy that doesn't take any crap. Come to play football or go home. I would like to think there are plenty of other professionals with that same mindset who would respect this viewpoint.

 

[Avery]

The knock on Bellichek's character has nothing to do with embarrassing his franchise player.

So?

Smith seems like a guy that acts and speaks out of emotion calling players or coaches that he perceives have wronged him in one way or another to the media rather than handling his job like a professional. Furthermore, I don't know how willfully embarrassing LT is going to get him the best players at a discounted price going forward. Seems short sighted and emotional to me.

This response didn't seem emotional to me. It seemed more like it was response that he had already planned out. The impression it sends is that he's a guy that doesn't take any crap. Come to play football or go home. I would like to think there are plenty of other professionals with that same mindset who would respect this viewpoint.

If mocking your franchise player to the media is a planned out response, I question the wisdom of that plan. To me, it doesn't seem like the actions of a no-nonsense type of GM, it seems more like a petty, childish, prodding quip with no real effect but to poke at a player who has clearly "come to play football" for the Chargers for years and another piece of evidence that Smith is somewhat of a #####.But then again I'm not a Chargers or AJ Smith fanboy so I don't see his actions through glasses that are quite as rosy.

 

[Despyzer]

But then again I'm not a Chargers or AJ Smith fanboy so I don't see his actions through glasses that are quite as rosy.

Yes, any viewpoint that is different from yours can only be the result of some blind homerism. That's a very good point. Thanks for sharing.

 

[habsfan]

I read what he said as "This is pro sports and things change quickly - for star players, GMs and everyone else".

What LT wrote is effectively the same thing - I love it here and will be here... until I'm not.

 

[Avery]

But then again I'm not a Chargers or AJ Smith fanboy so I don't see his actions through glasses that are quite as rosy.

Yes, any viewpoint that is different from yours can only be the result of some blind homerism. That's a very good point. Thanks for sharing.

Never said that. What I did saw is why I think Smith is acting childish and not like a hard, nosed GM and in this situation, I just can't think of another reason why one would support Smith other then either a dislike of LT or simply arguing from an AJ Smith advocate point of view but feel free to exaggerate and extrapolate my points into some ludicrous generality.To quote myself...

Anyway, it's a common debate technique to exaggerate a claim to make it seem ludicrous. My girlfriend does it all the time.

 

[thehornet]

But then again I'm not a Chargers or AJ Smith fanboy so I don't see his actions through glasses that are quite as rosy.

Yes, any viewpoint that is different from yours can only be the result of some blind homerism. That's a very good point. Thanks for sharing.

Never said that. What I did saw is why I think Smith is acting childish and not like a hard, nosed GM and in this situation, I just can't think of another reason why one would support Smith other then either a dislike of LT or simply arguing from an AJ Smith advocate point of view but feel free to exaggerate and extrapolate my points into some ludicrous generality.To quote myself...

Anyway, it's a common debate technique to exaggerate a claim to make it seem ludicrous. My girlfriend does it all the time.

I hate LT, but this smith guy is an idiot for his comments. ALPHA MALE syndrome if there was one.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

 

[Hoss_Cartwright]

LaDainian Tomlinson-RB-Chargers Jan. 25 - 11:42 am et

Chargers beat writer Kevin Acee believes the Chargers will offer LaDainian Tomlinson a restructured contract in the next few weeks.

That would then put the ball in Tomlinson's court, forcing him to decide if he wants to remain in San Diego at far less than the $24 million he's owed over the next three years on his current deal. His relationship with GM A.J. Smith currently on the outs, LT could reject the offer and leave the Chargers with no option but to release their franchise icon.

Source: San Diego Union-Tribune

 

[Adebisi]

LaDainian Tomlinson-RB-Chargers Jan. 25 - 11:42 am et Chargers beat writer Kevin Acee believes the Chargers will offer LaDainian Tomlinson a restructured contract in the next few weeks.That would then put the ball in Tomlinson's court, forcing him to decide if he wants to remain in San Diego at far less than the $24 million he's owed over the next three years on his current deal. His relationship with GM A.J. Smith currently on the outs, LT could reject the offer and leave the Chargers with no option but to release their franchise icon. Source: San Diego Union-Tribune

The shark move - and the obvious move - by the Chargers. We'll find out just how bad Tomlinson wants to stay in San Diego.

 

[Avery]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

I'm not going to delve into all the details here (such as the claim that just because you ask a question, you are in a unique position to properly interpret the answer or that releasing Tomlinson would actually be showing him respect ) but this version of how Smith's quote and the entire Tomlinson/Smith situation should properly be interpreted is clearly the opinion of someone who is a big fan of Smith's.

 

[Itchy Amos]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

Well, if this guy is right, it just goes to show that you never can be too sure about intent when reading a quote.I really am not sure I buy this, though. Even this writer says that Smith may have been taking a shot "across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp". If that is so, then the inflammatory sounding comments were indeed meant to be inflammatory.

 

[Walter Slovotsky]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

I'm not going to delve into all the details here (such as the claim that just because you ask a question, you are in a unique position to properly interpret the answer or that releasing Tomlinson would actually be showing him respect ) but this version of how Smith's quote and the entire Tomlinson/Smith situation should properly be interpreted is clearly the opinion of someone who is a big fan of Smith's.

Really? You believe someone who has never met A.J. and has no idea who A.J. Smith is other than by what he reads in the paper and hears on radio/TV is in a better position to properly interpret A.J.'s comments than someone who not only was there to ask/hear A.J. directly, but has also had many other opportunities to interact with A.J. and learn more about the guy from direct experience?That is a.. unique position to take.

 

[Despyzer]

I'm not going to delve into all the details here (such as the claim that just because you ask a question, you are in a unique position to properly interpret the answer or that releasing Tomlinson would actually be showing him respect ) but this version of how Smith's quote and the entire Tomlinson/Smith situation should properly be interpreted is clearly the opinion of someone who is a big fan of Smith's.

Tone can be difficult to interpret in the written word. Experts say that 90% of a spoken message is translated through means other than the words themselves (body language, intonation, etc.). You,me, and MT weren't in the room when A.J.said this. Florio wasn't in the room when he said this. Kevin Acee was, so I think he gets to be the expert in translating Smith's intent. Maybe you can ask A.J. a question and be the authority next time.

 

[thatguy]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

I'm not going to delve into all the details here (such as the claim that just because you ask a question, you are in a unique position to properly interpret the answer or that releasing Tomlinson would actually be showing him respect ) but this version of how Smith's quote and the entire Tomlinson/Smith situation should properly be interpreted is clearly the opinion of someone who is a big fan of Smith's.

Really? You believe someone who has never met A.J. and has no idea who A.J. Smith is other than by what he reads in the paper and hears on radio/TV is in a better position to properly interpret A.J.'s comments than someone who not only was there to ask/hear A.J. directly, but has also had many other opportunities to interact with A.J. and learn more about the guy from direct experience?That is a.. unique position to take.

Do you not think that journalists have agendas? If this guy is a fan of A.J., I would think it his agenda to defend his reputation.

 

[Despyzer]

Do you not think that journalists have agendas? If this guy is a fan of A.J., I would think it his agenda to defend his reputation.

So you know enough about Acee to determine his agenda?

 

[thatguy]

Do you not think that journalists have agendas? If this guy is a fan of A.J., I would think it his agenda to defend his reputation.

So you know enough about Acee to determine his agenda?

Notice I said "if" he is a fan of A.J.? That implies I know nothing about him. My point still stands. Feel free to find another flaw in what I said though.

 

[Despyzer]

Do you not think that journalists have agendas? If this guy is a fan of A.J., I would think it his agenda to defend his reputation.

So you know enough about Acee to determine his agenda?

Notice I said "if" he is a fan of A.J.? That implies I know nothing about him. My point still stands. Feel free to find another flaw in what I said though.

So you are making an argument based on ignorant speculation? Finding the flaw wasn't too difficult. Keep making those "points" though.

 

[thatguy]

Do you not think that journalists have agendas? If this guy is a fan of A.J., I would think it his agenda to defend his reputation.

So you know enough about Acee to determine his agenda?

Notice I said "if" he is a fan of A.J.? That implies I know nothing about him. My point still stands. Feel free to find another flaw in what I said though.

So you are making an argument based on ignorant speculation? Finding the flaw wasn't too difficult. Keep making those "points" though.

I asked a question to make this very simple point: it is possible that Acee has an agenda, and it is possible that his agenda in this particular case is to defend the reputation of a man he admires. That is all. Hope this helps.Notice, I didn't state anything as fact, because as I said, I do not know. Frankly, neither do you.You should learn the difference between speculating and using a hypothetical.

 

[BigJim®]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

Time for Spanos to ‘flex’ on SmithBy Michael Silver, Yahoo! Sports

Jan 23, 3:59 am EST

As the acerbic and autocratic general manager of the San Diego Chargers, A.J. Smith is a man consumed by his own power.

Sometimes Smith gets to flex, like he did on the night nearly two years ago when the coach he detested, Marty Schottenheimer, was fired by Chargers CEO Dean Spanos after having led San Diego to a 14-2 record. From that point on, the Chargers were Smith’s show, and he made sure everybody knew it.

On Wednesday, however, Smith disrespected the wrong dude.

Responding to a relatively benign statement by LaDainian Tomlinson on the star halfback’s website that he has “NO intentions of leaving San Diego,” Smith brazenly mocked the most beloved player in franchise history.

Mimicking LT’s quote almost word for word, Smith told the San Diego Union-Tribune, “My first reaction was we both have similar feelings. I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my GM career started and where I’d like it to end. I also have nothing but love and the utmost respect for this team, the players and the Spanos family. I have absolutely no control over how long I will be with the Chargers.

“As for now, I am the Chargers’ GM, and I have major decisions to ponder for the organization now and in the future. My recommendation to Dean Spanos will be what’s in the best interest of the team – both short and long term. That’s my job. That’s what Dean hired me to do.”

To which I say: Did Spanos also hire Smith to be the most pompous blowhard in the Western Hemisphere?

Make no mistake: Deciding whether Tomlinson will remain with the Chargers, at least privately, is part of Smith’s job. Snidely tweaking LT in public, whether it’s an attempt to bait him into asking for a trade or simply a glimpse into Smith’s power-mad psyche, is part of the reason his job should be in jeopardy.

It leads you to believe that A.J. stands for Antagonistic Jerk.

Certainly, the debate about Tomlinson’s future with the Chargers is a legitimate one. His 2009 cap figure is $8.8 million, and at the start of next season he’ll be 30, an age when premier running backs typically start to decline. Given his drop-off in production and recent propensity for injuries, it’s fair to ask whether that process has already begun.

LT’s numbers were down in 2008, partly because of a nagging toe injury, and also because the Chargers, under Norv Turner, have moved away from the power-running attack favored by Schottenheimer. He has been restricted in each of the past two postseasons because of a knee sprain and groin tear, respectively.

Further impacting the decision is the fact that San Diego, which allowed halfback Michael Turner to leave via free agency a year ago, only to watch him emerge as an MVP candidate for the Atlanta Falcons, seems to have another potential star in scatback Darren Sproles, whose contract is also about to expire.

The franchise could decide to ask Tomlinson, who has three years left on his contract, to take a pay cut. Or it could try to trade him. If those efforts fail, the Chargers may decide that cutting the future Hall of Famer after eight seasons is the best option.

Personally, that’s not an option I would choose, but I can understand its logic. However, embarrassing and antagonizing the halfback who was voted the NFL’s co-Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2006 – the same season he was voted the league’s MVP after rushing for 1,815 yards and scoring a record 31 touchdowns – is deplorable.

It’s also a strategy that is liable to backfire.

Because of Tomlinson’s commendable comportment as a player and his impeccable off-the-field conduct, he is revered by a fan base that isn’t likely to respond positively to Smith’s diss. For supporters of a franchise that has never won a Super Bowl and has played for the Lombardi Trophy only once, LT’s accomplishments and classy reputation serve as an immense source of pride.

Tomlinson is similarly popular in the locker room, and his recent attempts to play through a painful groin injury – he even ran for a touchdown in the team’s first-round playoff victory over the Indianapolis Colts before giving way to Sproles, who came through with the game of his life – have only enhanced his status.

You have to give respect to get respect, and how much respect do you think Smith’s players have for him right now? If he can treat someone of LT’s stature this rudely, it stands to reason, the rest of them have a pretty good idea of what might await them when they become the least bit expendable.

Smith’s attitude, undoubtedly, is something along the lines of, I’m the boss. Who cares?

The thing is, his boss should care. In this economy, Spanos doesn’t have the luxury of not caring.

The Chargers are a franchise stuck in an unfavorable stadium situation, and there is plenty of tension between the team and the city of San Diego, which recently filed a $170,000 breach of contract suit against the organization. The Chargers managed to sell out Qualcomm Stadium for their playoff game against the Colts, but up until three days before the game they were no sure bet to avoid an embarrassing local blackout.

Working over the face of the franchise isn’t the best way to win over the paying customers – especially given the dubious credentials of the perpetrator. While Smith has shown an aptitude for evaluating personnel, he’s also the guy who, arguably, has overseen a franchise on the decline. The Chargers followed that 14-2 season in ’06 with a 10-6 effort in ’07 and this year’s 8-8 mark. Playoff upsets of the Colts in each of the past two years took some of the sting out of that disturbing pattern, but the bottom line is that San Diego was an unsuccessful onside kick recovery away from missing out on the ’08 postseason.

Again, Smith has made some shrewd draft picks and free-agent signings, but it’s not like we’re talking about the second coming of Bill Walsh. The longtime scout was promoted to general manager in 2003 after the death of his boss and mentor, John Butler, and he carries himself like a man who is football royalty.

In reality, as a pair of writers who regularly cover the Chargers (North County Times columnist Jay Paris and Bernie Wilson of the Associated Press) have dubbed him, Smith is “The Lord of No Rings.”

We saw this season that Smith seems to have undervalued All-Pro outside linebacker Shawne Merriman (currently the sixth-highest paid player on the defense, and not happy about it). Even his most conspicuous success, the ’04 draft-day trade for quarterback Philip Rivers, comes with a caveat: Smith allowed Drew Brees, now a perennial Pro Bowl performer for the Saints, to bolt via free agency, getting zero compensation in return.

As I wrote back in December, Smith has been too quick to sign unproven players to contract extensions, a self-serving tendency that may have chipped away at the team’s collective competitive drive.

If I’m Spanos, a genial and reasonable man, I’d use this opportunity to take a hard look at where things are with the franchise. And even if I were to conclude that Smith is an excellent talent-evaluator, I’d still view him as an atrocious manager.

It’s not like Smith is the only guy who can effectively judge football players. If Spanos wants a guy who knows personnel and has a concept of how to treat people – and how to represent the franchise with dignity – there are plenty of ways he could go. There are men who meet that description inside the franchise (player personnel director Jimmy Raye, senior executive Randy Mueller) and outside of it (Cardinals player personnel director Steve Keim, Falcons player personnel director Les Snead, just to name two great candidates off the top of my head).

Two years ago, when Schottenheimer and Smith were no longer on speaking terms and the franchise was reeling from a playoff defeat to the Patriots, Spanos stepped in to restore order. Flummoxed after both of Schottenheimer’s coordinators (Wade Phillips and Cam Cameron) were hired away as head coaches, and put off by Marty’s desire to bring in his brother, Kurt, as Phillips’ replacement, Spanos made the tough call to get rid of a coach who’d just produced the best regular season in franchise history and was 35-13 over three years.

In a statement released by the team after the firing, Spanos was remarkably blunt, stating, “In the plainest possible language, we have a dysfunctional situation here. Today I am resolving that situation once and for all …”

Now Smith is involved in another situation that, because of his inability to shut his pie hole, is rapidly degenerating toward dysfunction. Gee, what seems to be the common denominator here?

It doesn’t matter anymore what the smart football decision is, for this has become a battle of egos playing out in the public realm, and only one of the principals has been smart enough to keep a lid on his emotions.

At a tenuous time for the franchise, it’s A.J. vs. LT that has the fans buzzing. By trying to prove he’s more powerful than Tomlinson, to the point of humiliation, Smith is tarnishing the Chargers brand.

Because of that, Spanos should assess the damage Smith is causing, summon him to his office and flex his power.

Whatever the team decides to do with Tomlinson, giving Smith a swift and severe attitude adjustment is absolutely in the best interest of the Chargers.

 

[Walter Slovotsky]

Smith's LT quotes overblown

By Kevin Acee

January 25, 2009

Since writing the story that included the now-infamous A.J. Smith quotes regarding LaDainian Tomlinson's Web site posting, I've been traveling and digesting the national and local reaction to Smith's words.

My reaction to the reaction: Wow!

If you don't know what quote I'm referring to, I'm surprised you're even reading this. Anyone with a passing interest in the NFL has heard or read about what Smith said and the idea he is a horrible human for mocking Tomlinson.

I definitely see where that interpretation comes from. Repeating someone's words to fashion your own quote would certainly not seem to be an attempt to show respect.

But as the person who elicited the quote, I feel a certain unique ability to interpret Smith's intent.

For as abrupt, unpolished and even unfriendly as Smith can come off, I assure you he did not mean to mock LT.

Was he unhappy that Tomlinson had once again gone public talking about how badly he wanted to stay in San Diego? Yes.

Might Smith have been better served saying nothing? Yes.

However, what Smith was simply addressing, in his own uniquely straight-forward way, was the reality of the situation.

In a perfect world without limitations on money and salary cap, Smith would have Tomlinson stay a Charger, too. But given all the reasons that have been outlined ad nauseam over the past few weeks, that might not be possible. And tough decisions have to be made – by Smith.

And again, Smith was not meaning to disrespect LT.

If anything, his comments were a shot across the bow of the greater Tomlinson camp – namely agent Tom Condon – and what Smith perceived as repeated attempts to paint a certain picture.

In contrast to his being an out-of-control egomaniac, as has been portrayed in many corners, Smith is feeling the weight of a decision that will shape a franchise and one that, depending on how it turns out, he knows might not be popular.

Remember, it was Smith who told LT five years ago that his career would not be in vain. Smith is now forced to face the fact that he most likely cannot keep his superstar running back and might have to part ways with him before delivering a Super Bowl.

Yet that remains Smith's all-consuming goal – to bring a Super Bowl to the franchise he has rebuilt.

Yes, Smith has an ego the size of Rhode Island, the state from where he came. You know who else does? Almost every other general manager and coach in the NFL.

Many of them hide it better. Smith doesn't hide much. I respect him for it. He's rough around the edges and proud of it. At least you know where you stand with him.

My educated guess is that the Chargers will, in the end, show Tomlinson the respect he deserves.

They will in the next few weeks offer Tomlinson a restructured contract. Tomlinson, who over the past five seasons has made $36 million, more than any running back in the league, must then decide what he wants to do. If that contract is acceptable to Tomlinson, he will remain a Charger.

If Tomlinson decides the new contract – perhaps with money deferred, perhaps with bonuses, but nowhere near the $24 million he is due to make over the final three seasons of his current pact – is not good enough, then he will be released.

That would be a show of respect from the franchise, immediately letting him walk away and choose which team he will play for rather than putting him through the indignity of a trade that would ultimately yield little.

Regardless of how it came off, the idea that Smith meant disrespect toward Tomlinson is ill-informed.

Time for Spanos to 'flex' on SmithBy Michael Silver, Yahoo! Sports

Jan 23, 3:59 am EST

A Michael Sliver Chargers article..

 

[Despyzer]

at trying to counter a Kevin Acee column with a Michael Silvers article. I hope that was supposed to be a joke.

 

[Tom Servo]

at trying to counter a Kevin Acee column with a Michael Silvers article. I hope that was supposed to be a joke.

No offense, but would you mind unpacking this for the rest of us?

 

[Despyzer]

at trying to counter a Kevin Acee column with a Michael Silvers article. I hope that was supposed to be a joke.

No offense, but would you mind unpacking this for the rest of us?

Kevin Acee is a well-established beat writer who covers the Chargers even-handedly for the UT and the Sporting News. Michael Silvers is a Los Angelean with a Raiders bias and no inside contact with the Chargers.

 

[Adebisi]

Any chance that we could all just take a step back and agree that Tomlinson is a crybaby and Smith is a jerk?

Probably not, but it was worth a shot.

 

[switz]

Boy, this situation is pretty unfortunate. I'm a big fan of LT and feel AJ is 100% in the wrong playing these public games with him. Here's a portion of the PFT report:

A.J. MOCKS L.T.

On Wednesday, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson posted the following message on his personal web site: “I have been getting a lot of messages on my site regarding me leaving San Diego. I feel that I need to make it very clear that I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my career started and where I’d like it to end. I have nothing but love and the upmost [sic] respect for this team, the players, and the Spanos Family. Me being traded is completely out of my hands. I have ABSOLUTELY no control in that decision making. All I can do is wait and see how it all plays out. As for now, I am a Charger and will be until I am told otherwise.”

Informed of the statement from L.T., Chargers G.M. A.J. Smith didn’t take the typical, “We respect LaDainian and everything he’s done for the organization” approach.

Instead, Smith mocked Tomlinson.

“My first reaction was we both have similar feelings,” Smith said, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my GM career started and where I’d like it to end. I also have nothing but love and the utmost respect for this team, the players and the Spanos family. I have absolutely no control over how long I will be with the Chargers.”

Though on one hand we love it, on the other hand we suspect that one or more folks named Spanos are a tad uncomfortable with the remarks, which clearly were aimed at getting under L.T.’s skin.

Smith also addressed the broader question of what will happen with Tomlinson in 2009. “My recommendation to Dean Spanos will be what’s in the best interest of the team – both short and long term. That’s my job. That’s what Dean hired me to do.”

I can only read Smith's comments as sarcasm, directed at who (LT or the reporters) I don't really know. Either way, it's a strange way to play this as it seems like there's little upside to being sarcastic, and lots of potential downside.

"I know how you feel" sounds about as far away from mocking as you can get, sounds like sympathizing. He basically said, I know how he feels, we both want to be here, but were both in a position where that's not completely in our own control.More PFT

ETA: I would imagine LT is among the players AJ has "the utmost respect" for...

 

[Synthesizer]

Boy, this situation is pretty unfortunate. I'm a big fan of LT and feel AJ is 100% in the wrong playing these public games with him. Here's a portion of the PFT report:

A.J. MOCKS L.T.

On Wednesday, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson posted the following message on his personal web site: “I have been getting a lot of messages on my site regarding me leaving San Diego. I feel that I need to make it very clear that I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my career started and where I’d like it to end. I have nothing but love and the upmost [sic] respect for this team, the players, and the Spanos Family. Me being traded is completely out of my hands. I have ABSOLUTELY no control in that decision making. All I can do is wait and see how it all plays out. As for now, I am a Charger and will be until I am told otherwise.”

Informed of the statement from L.T., Chargers G.M. A.J. Smith didn’t take the typical, “We respect LaDainian and everything he’s done for the organization” approach.

Instead, Smith mocked Tomlinson.

“My first reaction was we both have similar feelings,” Smith said, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my GM career started and where I’d like it to end. I also have nothing but love and the utmost respect for this team, the players and the Spanos family. I have absolutely no control over how long I will be with the Chargers.”

Though on one hand we love it, on the other hand we suspect that one or more folks named Spanos are a tad uncomfortable with the remarks, which clearly were aimed at getting under L.T.’s skin.

Smith also addressed the broader question of what will happen with Tomlinson in 2009. “My recommendation to Dean Spanos will be what’s in the best interest of the team – both short and long term. That’s my job. That’s what Dean hired me to do.”

I can only read Smith's comments as sarcasm, directed at who (LT or the reporters) I don't really know. Either way, it's a strange way to play this as it seems like there's little upside to being sarcastic, and lots of potential downside.

"I know how you feel" sounds about as far away from mocking as you can get, sounds like sympathizing. He basically said, I know how he feels, we both want to be here, but were both in a position where that's not completely in our own control.More PFT

ETA: I would imagine LT is among the players AJ has "the utmost respect" for...

"I know how you feel" isn't the part that people are having problems with. If he would have continued talking in that tone, it's a non-issue. It's the 40 words or so that followed where he mocks LT.

 

[teamroc]

Boy, this situation is pretty unfortunate. I'm a big fan of LT and feel AJ is 100% in the wrong playing these public games with him. Here's a portion of the PFT report:

A.J. MOCKS L.T.

On Wednesday, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson posted the following message on his personal web site: “I have been getting a lot of messages on my site regarding me leaving San Diego. I feel that I need to make it very clear that I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my career started and where I’d like it to end. I have nothing but love and the upmost [sic] respect for this team, the players, and the Spanos Family. Me being traded is completely out of my hands. I have ABSOLUTELY no control in that decision making. All I can do is wait and see how it all plays out. As for now, I am a Charger and will be until I am told otherwise.”

Informed of the statement from L.T., Chargers G.M. A.J. Smith didn’t take the typical, “We respect LaDainian and everything he’s done for the organization” approach.

Instead, Smith mocked Tomlinson.

“My first reaction was we both have similar feelings,” Smith said, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my GM career started and where I’d like it to end. I also have nothing but love and the utmost respect for this team, the players and the Spanos family. I have absolutely no control over how long I will be with the Chargers.”

Though on one hand we love it, on the other hand we suspect that one or more folks named Spanos are a tad uncomfortable with the remarks, which clearly were aimed at getting under L.T.’s skin.

Smith also addressed the broader question of what will happen with Tomlinson in 2009. “My recommendation to Dean Spanos will be what’s in the best interest of the team – both short and long term. That’s my job. That’s what Dean hired me to do.”

I can only read Smith's comments as sarcasm, directed at who (LT or the reporters) I don't really know. Either way, it's a strange way to play this as it seems like there's little upside to being sarcastic, and lots of potential downside.

"I know how you feel" sounds about as far away from mocking as you can get, sounds like sympathizing. He basically said, I know how he feels, we both want to be here, but were both in a position where that's not completely in our own control.More PFT

ETA: I would imagine LT is among the players AJ has "the utmost respect" for...

PFT? Or PFT + every single sports news organization. If you can't pick up on the subtle cat fight overtones, you should probably take a step back and re-read the entire story - a few times.

 

[Wadsworth]

I think the problem a lot of people are having with what AJ said is based on his job title. If another player said the same thing in response to LT I could see how it wasn't mocking, but AJ is the GM.

If I say I'm worried about keeping my job and the housing market. That I hope my retirement is enough to live on and that I can afford to send my kids to college I think most people would find that a reasonable statement. But if someone reads that statement to President Obama and he responses, well I'm worried about my job too, and the housing market. I hope my retirement is enough and that I can send my kids to college, I doubt most people would be thrilled with that response. Because part of his job is to settle such issues and find solutions.

AJ is the GM. No one asked him about LT's statement to get his personal feelings about the matter and how LT's situation might parallel to his own journey. They wanted his response as a GM. But instead of just saying, LT has been a great Charger and we are working hard to find a solution that everyone is happy with, he parroted LTs comments. While I can't speak to his intention with his comments. I can speak to the fact that it appears to have been a poor choice, one an NFL GM should know better than to make.

 

[BigJim®]

Tomlinson-Smith public saga must stop now, Merriman says

By Kevin Acee

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Quietly, some Chargers players have expressed indignation in recent days over the LaDainian Tomlinson saga.

Particularly, players have privately expressed consternation over General Manager A.J. Smith's comments in which he was interpreted as mocking the star running back.

Sunday, one player who rarely censors what he says and who has strong beliefs and no fear spoke out.

“That (stuff) doesn't help bring a Super Bowl to San Diego,” linebacker Shawne Merriman said. “And that (stuff) needs to stop, period. It needs to stop now.”

That is not far from the thinking from the top of the organization.

Sources said that team President Dean Spanos is “very upset” about the Tomlinson situation being discussed publicly. Spanos is “particularly bothered by some of the misunderstandings being portrayed ... based on pure speculation,” according to one source. No one in the organization has talked to Tomlinson since Spanos called him Jan. 15.

Smith has not spoken publicly since Wednesday, but sources indicated he maintains a deep respect for Tomlinson.

The team is considering offering Tomlinson a new contract or perhaps releasing him.

Merriman, a three-time Pro Bowler, missed the final 15 games of the regular season and the playoffs after knee surgery. He has already experienced his contract, up after 2009, becoming a topic of discussion.

“Going into next season,” Merriman said, “I want people talking about how we're going to rebound from getting ... bounced from the playoffs – not if LT is going to be there or if I'm going to be there.”

Merriman and other players expressed awareness regarding the comings and goings of the NFL. But Merriman would like there to be cohesion going forward.

“We're a team, upstairs and downstairs, no matter what,” Merriman said. “This is a business, but if you address the situation publicly now you have turmoil.

“They're going to make decisions upstairs. But we've got to be a team.”

Perhaps Acee should have gotten the opinion of Charger's players and team president before writing an article giving personal opinion this is totally overblown.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

AJ reaches out to LT

Jan 26, 2009

Chargers.com

San Diego Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith, under fire for recent comments about the status of running back LaDainian Tomlinson, decided he owed the future Hall of Famer a phone call to clear the clouds of misinformation and speculation. So he picked up the phone on Monday evening and found Tomlinson in Tampa, Florida.

“It was important to me that L.T. know exactly what happened,” Smith said referring to comments he made in the San Diego Union-Tribune regarding statements on L.T.’s web site.

“I just answered a question and unfortunately my response was inappropriate,” said Smith, who has sat in the GM’s chair since 2003. “After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was interpreted the way it was.

“I absolutely meant no disrespect toward L.T… none. I have the utmost respect for him on two fronts, as a player and as a person.”

Admittedly, Smith was hurt by some the comments made by the local and national media. Though stung by the reaction, Smith was comforted by those who know him best.

“Dean Spanos and many members of our front office and coaching staff know exactly how I feel about L.T., and that is what has gotten me through this difficult time.

“And most important, L.T. knows how I feel about him.”

Smith characterized the 10-minute conversation as “a great talk … the kind of talk we have at the beginning of each season.”

Like Smith, Tomlinson had nothing but positive vibes from the phone call.

“It was great to hear from him,” said the five-time Pro Bowl performer. “It really went well. It’s always better talking directly to someone one on one. He was very upbeat and very sincere. He felt bad about what had happened.”

 

[switz]

Boy, this situation is pretty unfortunate. I'm a big fan of LT and feel AJ is 100% in the wrong playing these public games with him. Here's a portion of the PFT report:

A.J. MOCKS L.T.

On Wednesday, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson posted the following message on his personal web site: “I have been getting a lot of messages on my site regarding me leaving San Diego. I feel that I need to make it very clear that I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my career started and where I’d like it to end. I have nothing but love and the upmost [sic] respect for this team, the players, and the Spanos Family. Me being traded is completely out of my hands. I have ABSOLUTELY no control in that decision making. All I can do is wait and see how it all plays out. As for now, I am a Charger and will be until I am told otherwise.”

Informed of the statement from L.T., Chargers G.M. A.J. Smith didn’t take the typical, “We respect LaDainian and everything he’s done for the organization” approach.

Instead, Smith mocked Tomlinson.

“My first reaction was we both have similar feelings,” Smith said, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my GM career started and where I’d like it to end. I also have nothing but love and the utmost respect for this team, the players and the Spanos family. I have absolutely no control over how long I will be with the Chargers.”

Though on one hand we love it, on the other hand we suspect that one or more folks named Spanos are a tad uncomfortable with the remarks, which clearly were aimed at getting under L.T.’s skin.

Smith also addressed the broader question of what will happen with Tomlinson in 2009. “My recommendation to Dean Spanos will be what’s in the best interest of the team – both short and long term. That’s my job. That’s what Dean hired me to do.”

I can only read Smith's comments as sarcasm, directed at who (LT or the reporters) I don't really know. Either way, it's a strange way to play this as it seems like there's little upside to being sarcastic, and lots of potential downside.

"I know how you feel" sounds about as far away from mocking as you can get, sounds like sympathizing. He basically said, I know how he feels, we both want to be here, but were both in a position where that's not completely in our own control.More PFT

ETA: I would imagine LT is among the players AJ has "the utmost respect" for...

"I know how you feel" isn't the part that people are having problems with. If he would have continued talking in that tone, it's a non-issue. It's the 40 words or so that followed where he mocks LT.

People like to take shots at AJ, but this is really a non-story... ridiculous and desparate attempt to create news

 

[switz]

AJ reaches out to LT

Jan 26, 2009

Chargers.com

San Diego Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith, under fire for recent comments about the status of running back LaDainian Tomlinson, decided he owed the future Hall of Famer a phone call to clear the clouds of misinformation and speculation. So he picked up the phone on Monday evening and found Tomlinson in Tampa, Florida.

“It was important to me that L.T. know exactly what happened,” Smith said referring to comments he made in the San Diego Union-Tribune regarding statements on L.T.’s web site.

“I just answered a question and unfortunately my response was inappropriate,” said Smith, who has sat in the GM’s chair since 2003. “After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was interpreted the way it was.

“I absolutely meant no disrespect toward L.T… none. I have the utmost respect for him on two fronts, as a player and as a person.”

Admittedly, Smith was hurt by some the comments made by the local and national media. Though stung by the reaction, Smith was comforted by those who know him best.

“Dean Spanos and many members of our front office and coaching staff know exactly how I feel about L.T., and that is what has gotten me through this difficult time.

“And most important, L.T. knows how I feel about him.”

Smith characterized the 10-minute conversation as “a great talk … the kind of talk we have at the beginning of each season.”

Like Smith, Tomlinson had nothing but positive vibes from the phone call.

“It was great to hear from him,” said the five-time Pro Bowl performer. “It really went well. It’s always better talking directly to someone one on one. He was very upbeat and very sincere. He felt bad about what had happened.”

He wasn't being sarcastic, he wasn't mocking LT... stupid press just trying to make up the news

 

[Wadsworth]

AJ reaches out to LT

Jan 26, 2009

Chargers.com

San Diego Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith, under fire for recent comments about the status of running back LaDainian Tomlinson, decided he owed the future Hall of Famer a phone call to clear the clouds of misinformation and speculation. So he picked up the phone on Monday evening and found Tomlinson in Tampa, Florida.

“It was important to me that L.T. know exactly what happened,” Smith said referring to comments he made in the San Diego Union-Tribune regarding statements on L.T.’s web site.

“I just answered a question and unfortunately my response was inappropriate,” said Smith, who has sat in the GM’s chair since 2003. “After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was interpreted the way it was.

“I absolutely meant no disrespect toward L.T… none. I have the utmost respect for him on two fronts, as a player and as a person.”

Admittedly, Smith was hurt by some the comments made by the local and national media. Though stung by the reaction, Smith was comforted by those who know him best.

“Dean Spanos and many members of our front office and coaching staff know exactly how I feel about L.T., and that is what has gotten me through this difficult time.

“And most important, L.T. knows how I feel about him.”

Smith characterized the 10-minute conversation as “a great talk … the kind of talk we have at the beginning of each season.”

Like Smith, Tomlinson had nothing but positive vibes from the phone call.

“It was great to hear from him,” said the five-time Pro Bowl performer. “It really went well. It’s always better talking directly to someone one on one. He was very upbeat and very sincere. He felt bad about what had happened.”

Cool. Well done, AJ.

 

[Banger]

AJ reaches out to LT

Jan 26, 2009

Chargers.com

San Diego Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith, under fire for recent comments about the status of running back LaDainian Tomlinson, decided he owed the future Hall of Famer a phone call to clear the clouds of misinformation and speculation. So he picked up the phone on Monday evening and found Tomlinson in Tampa, Florida.

“It was important to me that L.T. know exactly what happened,” Smith said referring to comments he made in the San Diego Union-Tribune regarding statements on L.T.’s web site.

“I just answered a question and unfortunately my response was inappropriate,” said Smith, who has sat in the GM’s chair since 2003. “After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was interpreted the way it was.

“I absolutely meant no disrespect toward L.T… none. I have the utmost respect for him on two fronts, as a player and as a person.”

Admittedly, Smith was hurt by some the comments made by the local and national media. Though stung by the reaction, Smith was comforted by those who know him best.

“Dean Spanos and many members of our front office and coaching staff know exactly how I feel about L.T., and that is what has gotten me through this difficult time.

“And most important, L.T. knows how I feel about him.”

Smith characterized the 10-minute conversation as “a great talk … the kind of talk we have at the beginning of each season.”

Like Smith, Tomlinson had nothing but positive vibes from the phone call.

“It was great to hear from him,” said the five-time Pro Bowl performer. “It really went well. It’s always better talking directly to someone one on one. He was very upbeat and very sincere. He felt bad about what had happened.”

sometimes its just best to talk face to face and avoid the papers all together. /thread