Chargers to retire Tomlinson's #21

Published Jun. 10, 2015 5:09 p.m. ET

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SAN DIEGO -- The San Diego Chargers announced on Wednesday that they will have LaDainian Tomlinson's number 21 retired when he is inducted into the San Diego Chargers Hall of Fame during the upcoming 2015 season.

Tomlinson, who will become the fourth player to have his number retired by the organization, retired from the NFL in 2012 as the league's fifth all-time leading rusher (13,684 career yards) and the second most prolific scorer (145 career rushing touchdowns). He played nine seasons with the Chargers (2001-09) and set or tied a total of 28 team records, according to a team news release, which includes career rushing yards, rushing touchdowns in a season and total touchdowns.

Tomlinson's career as Charger was highlighted by the 2006 season, when he was named the Associated Press' NFL Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year, alongside earning the Walter Payton co-NFL Man of the Year. He also was a five-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time first-team All-Pro, two-time second-team All-Pro and runner up for the AP's Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2001.

"This is a special, special opportunity for the Chargers family and all Chargers fans," said Chargers Chairman Dean Spanos in a release from the organization on Wednesday. "Few players, if any, have meant more to this franchise than LT. He was the heart and soul of this team through one of the most successful decades in our history. I couldn't wait to watch him play every week because I knew I would see something special. And that's what he gave all of us: special memories we'll carry with us forever."

Tomlinson will be joining just three other Chargers to receive the highest honor from the organization in having their jersey number retired. He joins Lance Alworth (19), Dan Fouts (14) and the late Junior Seau (55). Tomlinson will be the 38th member enshrined in the Chargers Hall of Fame. 

The Chargers announced that on Sunday night, November 22, the official ceremony will take place at halftime of the Chargers-Chiefs game.

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