One day after the San Diego Chargers announced the release of LaDainian Tomlinson, another fantasy superstar has been sent on to the second stage of his career.

The Philadelphia Eagles announced Tuesday that they will release Brian Westbrook, a versatile running back who was one of the better players in fantasy football during his prime.

A PPR owner’s dream, Westbrook caught at least 60 passes in four consecutive seasons from 2004-2008.

His best fantasy numbers came in 2006-2007, when he averaged 83 receptions, 2,010 scrimmage yards and scored a combined 23 total touchdowns.

Numbers like that made Westbrook a top-five pick in all fantasy drafts.

Now that he’ll be on the open market, Westbrook is certain to draw interest from teams looking to improve their backfield depth. But at 30 and coming off multiple concussions, he won’t be more than a committee back and fantasy flex option (at best) wherever he lands.

With Westbrook out of the mix, the value of LeSean McCoy is on the rise.

The second-year back has similar skill sets to his former teammate, and he’s a great fit for the offensive style of coach Andy Reid. While he does need to improve on his pass blocking, McCoy should see more than his share of time on the field in 2010 and beyond.

At 21, the Pittsburgh product is a solid option in both seasonal and keeper leagues, and his value in PPR formats is obvious. He hauled in 40 passes as a rookie despite starting just four games, and that number should swell to over 60 moving forward.

Overall, McCoy should be seen as a viable No. 2 fantasy back and a stellar long-term option.

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