The San Diego Chargers' star running back didn't take a snap in Saturday's loss to the St. Louis Rams and isn't expected to play in the final two contests.

Tomlinson, the two-time defending NFL rushing champion, has run only 14 times in exhibition games throughout his career. The Chargers aren't about to risk an injury this year to the 2006 NFL MVP in meaningless games.

He still called this year's camp, which winds up Friday, a big success.

"I think the guys have really worked hard. We have really attacked this camp with the mindset of getting better and really taking each day and trying to get better," Tomlinson said Monday. "I am happy camp is coming to a close. You always look forward to camp being over. But with that, you know that the first game is approaching."

The Chargers' regular-season opener is Sept. 7 at home against the Carolina Panthers.

"I am very happy with the way camp has went," Tomlinson said. "I have been healthy the whole camp and really felt good the whole camp. I think the coaching staff has done a great job taking care of me.

"But honestly, I can't wait until it's over."

Coach Norv Turner has gone to great lengths to ensure his starters will be fit come next month. He did so Saturday in St. Louis, when 14 Chargers regulars didn't start.

"I don't think we are taking a safe approach, we are taking a smart approach that's going to allow our guys to be ready to play once the season starts and be at 100 percent once the season starts," Turner said. "I like what our team has done through this camp. I think we have had outstanding practices very, very physical practices - and I think we are making the progress to do the things we have to do when the season gets going."

To that end, Turner wasn't shy about resting a handful of players Monday. Among those not working were: wide receiver Vincent Jackson (hamstring), defensive tackles Jamal Williams (knees) and Luis Castillo (back), linebacker Shawne Merriman (knee), cornerback Antonio Cromartie (wrist), tight end Antonio Gates (toe) and offensive linemen Marcus McNeill (shoulder) and Scott Mruczkowski (foot).