When NFL free agency season began, Michael Turner was the biggest prize of the available running backs. Turner, who began his career as LaDainian Tomlinson’s backup with the San Diego Chargers, ended up signing with the Atlanta Falcons.

In San Diego, there weren’t many concerned fans because although Turner was a good player, the Chargers have a better running back in Tomlinson. However, Charger fans might soon regret that the Chargers picked Turner over LaDainian. Sound crazy?  I know it does.

But Tomlinson will be 29-years-old by the time next year begins. While he’s a great running back, players at his position tend to start going downhill once they hit 30. Tomlinson has 2,400 career carries, which is a whole lot of punishment. To compare, the 26-year-old Turner has 228 career rushing attempts.

The smart move would have been to sell Tomlinson right now while his value is still high and then go with Turner as the new starting running back. It would have definitely been a difficult decision because Tomlinson is the face of the franchise and is regarded by many as the best running back in the NFL. But by trading Tomlinson and keeping Turner, the Chargers could have been stronger going forward.

Turner isn’t as good as Tomlinson but his 5.5 yards per carry career average isn’t too shabby. In fact, that is one full yard better per carry than Tomlinson. While that number surely would be lowered when he had to carry the ball more often as a starter, he’d still likely produce better than average stats.

The trade market for Tomlinson would have been huge. Almost every team in the league would love to get Tomlinson on their team. He’s an amazing running back, a quality person and someone you can build a franchise around. A couple good players and a few high draft picks would have been the opening bid for Tomlinson if the Chargers would have put him on the market.

Well now it’s too late for the Chargers. Turner is gone and the team no longer has options. Sorry to say, but you’ll come to regret this move, San Diego.