NFL news:San Diego Chargers sign rookie running back Ryan Matthews

The San Diego Chargers are 8u27vv-t*2y going through a drastic change in their backfield right now as they have said goodbye to former NFL MVP LaDainian Tomlinson (released, signed with the New York Jets) and will move forward with a Darren Sproles and rookie running back Ryan Matthews.

Obviously, whenever a Super Bowl title contender gets rid of a primetime player like LT they will make headlines, but they didn’t release their all-time leading rusher without planning for the future.

Last season the Chargers were amongst the best teams in the league as they had one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL, but instead of relying on the ground game as they usually do, San Diego was starting to hurt opposing defenses with more of an air attack.

With Philip Rivers really coming into his own last season with 4,254 yards, 28 touchdowns and just nine interceptions, the two-time Pro Bowler might be ready to lead this team to the Super Bowl with Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates downfield and Darren Sproles and rookie Ryan Matthews coming out of the backfield.NFL jerseys NFL jerseys store

Even though the Chargers are dealing with some big-name holdouts like Shawne Merriman and Vincent Jackson, they don’t have to worry about their rookie running back as they have agreed to terms with their 12th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Reportedly, Matthews has agreed to a five-year deal with the San Diego Chargers worth $25 million dollars. Along with earning about $5 million dollars a season, the rookie will have $15 million of his new contract guaranteed.

With the addition of Matthews to the Chargers backfield, I believe Philip Rivers and company will have a legitimate shot at contending for a title next season.