LenDale White is the heavyset chap who puts the "mash" in "Smash and Dash." On Saturday, he saw extended playing time due to a second-quarter Chris Johnson injury, and, well, let's just say he was underwhelming. White fumbled on the Ravens' 15-yard line late in the first half, and he managed just 45 yards on 15 carries for the day. He's not the sole reason Tennessee's season is now over -- Alge Crumpler's fumble was arguably more back-breaking, and the defense had two huge lapses that resulted in 10 points -- but White's three-year career can kindly be described as disappointing.
Part of the problem has been attitude, but the bigger issue has been his commitment. White has routinely shown up for offseason workouts looking more like Albert Haynesworth's stunt double than an NFL running back. Apparently, entering your contract year changes your perspective. Or maybe White's just tired of being chubby. Either way, he's taking the 2009 season seriously.
"I'm probably going to be beating myself about [the first-half fumble] until this time next year," said White, speaking softly, his eyes hidden behind dark sunglasses. "You never know what tomorrow is going to bring you." ...Well, that's a departure from previous years, but maybe White finally gets it. Or maybe he's playing for his next contract. Hey, whatever it takes.
"I'm going to start working out next week," he said. "I will be back here when it's time to be back here - in shape, ready to play and win a championship."
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
1-11-2009 @ 12:06PM
inlandvalleywild said...
Lendale is a great athlete, but he has always demonstrated some questionable character. Whether it be being out of condition to perform, loss of focus and making mistakes or poor sportsmanship. When he left USC early there really were not many tears shed by his USC teamates.
I imagine White is saying all this now for image bolstering in hopes of a better contract.
It looks like Jeff Fisher didn't learn the lesson that Pete Carroll learned early with White, GREAT TALENT, WITH NO HEART AND HE WILL CHOKE WHEN IT GETS TOUGH.
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1-11-2009 @ 2:08PM
Adam said...
This seems to happen a lot. Young players think they can loaf off in the offseason, when when reality hits them and they grow up, they take things more seriously. I know a lot of veterans like to get this 'reality' thing in them early, but I guess it's something that comes with age.
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