In the surest sign yet that running back LaDainian Tomlinson’s days are numbered in San Diego, the Chargers are apparently dangling Pro Bowl cornerback Antonio Cromartie as trade bait, in an attempt to acquire a new star to carry the load next season.

According to ESPN’s Chris Mortensen, San Diego is comfortable with losing Cromartie if they can obtain a quality running back or draft pick back in return. The Chargers already have two former first round picks at the position sharing time with Cromartie in Antoine Cason and Quentin Jammer, so a departure by Cromartie wouldn’t be a terrible hit to the team’s roster.

Finding a team that’s willing to give up a talented runner in return for Cromartie’s services may be difficult, but getting a high value draft pick shouldn’t be all that hard, and if San Diego can snatch a second selection in round one, they’d be in great shape to use one of the picks on a collegiate back with enough skill to make up for Tomlinson hitting the road this off-season.

Teams likely to listen to the Chargers are Green Bay, Dallas, New York (Giants and Jets), and Tennessee.

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3. Rivera emerges as candidate in Buffalo
4. Jones to bolt Big Apple for sunny San Diego?
5. Potential landing spots for Tomlinson shaping up