The Associated Press

TEMPE, Ariz. - Emmitt Smith has known LaDainian Tomlinson for a long time. He even has his number in his cell phone.

The NFL's career rushing leader is a mentor of sorts to the San Diego Chargers' Pro Bowl running back. He will get a chance to see Tomlinson tonight when the Cardinals play at San Diego.

"He was in my football camp back in Texas when he was a little youngster," Smith said. "We've shared a couple of conversations in terms of the NFL, what to expect, how to take care of yourself."

After 13 NFL seasons, the 34-year-old Smith has grown accustomed to playing against people who were just kids when he first put on a Dallas Cowboys' uniform.

"You know, I got over that last year when Antonio Bryant told me he was 8 years old when I was playing," Smith said with a laugh.

Smith said it is his responsibility to pass on what he has learned.

"There's always someone who has come before who has had that knowledge in some way, shape or form," Smith said.

Smith no doubt will get a chance to talk with Tomlinson. Maybe he'll bring up how the Chargers star had to be carted off the practice field Thursday because he was overheated and dehydrated.

"I'll have to talk to him about how to rehydrate now," Smith said.

EAGLES: Wide receiver Todd Pinkston, who would have been eligible for free agency after the 2004 season, signed a six-year contract extension. Financial terms were not announced for the deal, which runs through 2008.

JETS: Guard Tom Nutten has told coach Herman Edwards he is retiring. Nutten, who signed as a free agent in the offseason, was competing for the starting job but apparently lost out to Brent Smith.

PATRIOTS: The team waived second-year offensive guard Marques McFadden, whom they claimed Aug. 13 after he was waived by Dallas.

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