Lorenzo

Neal

It’s a good fit. Oren O’Neal is the Raiders starter, but he’s recovering from major knee surgery and may not be ready for training camp. Backup Luke Lawton is nothing more than a role player.

Neal has paved the way for 1,000-yard seasons by Curtis Martin, Corey Dillon, Eddie George, and now LaDainian Tomlinson. He’s made the Pro Bowl once.

LaDainian Tomlinson’s lead blocker had a plate placed in his fractured fibula, but the Chargers hope he can return for the playoffs. The Chargers will face three soft run defenses to close the season, so they should get by with backup FB Andrew Pinnock if needed.

Neal was seen walking “without issue” yesterday, just 17 days after having a plate put in his fractured right leg. The Chargers have hoped that Neal would be able to return for the playoffs all along, and this news suggests he’ll be able to.

Neal could get in some practice time, but won’t be active against the Titans. The Chargers’ running game has been moving along just fine without him.

Neal signed a contract extension last offseason, but the Chargers have reduced their use of a lead blocker under head coach Norv Turner. The 37-year-old Pro Bowler may need to take a pay cut and a backup role to stay.

Neal had requested a release, knowing that he doesn’t have a big role in Norv Turner’s offense, but the team refused. They will try to trade him, but it will be tough to find a anything better than a late-round pick for a 37-year-old coming off a broken leg.

Neal, who was named to the All-Pro team earlier in the day, broke his leg exactly one month ago. His status for this weekend is still in question, but his return would help a rushing attack that has lost some of its bite since he went down.

San Diego’s rushing game has struggled since Neal broke his leg roughly one month ago. It sounds like Neal will try to practice during the week, and could wind up starting over Andrew Pinnock.

Neal has a fractured fibula and may not play again for the Chargers this season. Harris’ hand is still injured. Nate Kaeding will kick field goals.