Merriman has knee ligament damage

[MVP-06]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/specials/preview/2008/08/20/merriman.knee.ap/index.html


SAN DIEGO (AP) -- San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, who has missed more than a week of practice because of a sore left knee, said Thursday night that he has ligament damage and is evaluating his options.

The trouble is "a loose ligament and (I'm) waiting to get more info on what I need to do," Merriman said in an e-mail to the North County Times.

Merriman underwent surgery to repair cartilage damage five months ago but has had persistent pain in the knee during training camp. He traveled this week to Birmingham, Ala., so the knee could be examined by Dr. James Andrews, who performed the operation.

Merriman last played in the Aug. 9 preseason opener against Dallas and has not practiced since then.

Coach Norv Turner said he hoped that Merriman will be able to play on Sept. 7 when the Chargers open their regular season against the Carolina Panthers.

"I think he can be close to 100 percent and get back with some real good rehab work," Turner said. "He's been doing a great job with it and I think he just needs some more time right now."



Would be sweet if he was out for 2nd game of year

[bronco militia]

thread #4 and this jagoff doesn't even play for the Broncos

[Hotrod]

I wonder if fish get thirsty???

[FantomForce]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/specials/preview/2008/08/20/merriman.knee.ap/index.html


SAN DIEGO (AP) -- San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, who has missed more than a week of practice because of a sore left knee, said Thursday night that he has ligament damage and is evaluating his options.

The trouble is "a loose ligament and (I'm) waiting to get more info on what I need to do," Merriman said in an e-mail to the North County Times.

Merriman underwent surgery to repair cartilage damage five months ago but has had persistent pain in the knee during training camp. He traveled this week to Birmingham, Ala., so the knee could be examined by Dr. James Andrews, who performed the operation.

Merriman last played in the Aug. 9 preseason opener against Dallas and has not practiced since then.

Coach Norv Turner said he hoped that Merriman will be able to play on Sept. 7 when the Chargers open their regular season against the Carolina Panthers.

"I think he can be close to 100 percent and get back with some real good rehab work," Turner said. "He's been doing a great job with it and I think he just needs some more time right now."



Would be sweet if he was out for 2nd game of year


He can't shoot up anymore or he faces a big time ban, so who cares if he is there for the game or not. Our worry is stopping the SD offense they kicked our a$$ last year!

[rmsanger]

he could take some more steriods to heal faster...

[Kaylore]

Well our back up is better! He will fill in without missing a beat! Also, Jay Cutler started it!

/Bolt fans

[watermock]

Ligaments can't handle bulk/roids...look at David Boston...

He must be glad he took that other temp job!

[DeuceOfClub]

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2005/players/12/05/tattoo1212/t1_merriman.jpg

[Traveler]

Torn PCL. Rehab just isn't going to repair it. But if his pain threshold is high enough, maybe he can tough it out.

[watermock]

"I think he can be close to 100 percent and get back with some real good rehab work," Turner said.

"Take one for the team"~Turner

[Kaylore]

Didn't Marshall have a torn PCL? You can come back from one with therapy and rest.

[Hotrod]

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2005/players/12/05/tattoo1212/t1_merriman.jpg

LOL classic

[PRBronco]

he could take some more steriods to heal faster...

Just ask Luis Castillo! It's totally cool to take steroids if your'e hurt! In fact you move up in the draft :thumbsup:

[MVP-06]

He can't shoot up anymore or he faces a big time ban, so who cares if he is there for the game or not. Our worry is stopping the SD offense they kicked our a$$ last year!

We scored 6 points against them last year so it's not like we lit their defense up. Say what you wan't about the guy but im not going to complain if he isn't playing against us. Especially with Marchall out

[bronco militia]

We scored 6 points against them last year so it's not like we lit their defense up. Say what you wan't about the guy but im not going to complain if he isn't playing against us. Especially with Marchall out

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y182/PrestohcysP/KoolAidMan_Fullpic_2.gif

[theAPAOps5]

Oh oh it sounds like AJ Smith doesn't think being a full time analyst for Fox Sports Net is the greatest idea:

http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/chargers/20080822-9999-1s22chargers.html

[sixtimeseight]

Well, their best players on both sides of the line are facing serious injury concerns going into the season. Too bad they missed their window because their GM stubbornly insisted on keeping Rivers over the much superior Brees. They'd probably have back to back titles right now with Brees at the helm.

[watermock]

Well, their best players on both sides of the line are facing serious injury concerns going into the season. Too bad they missed their window because their GM stubbornly insisted on keeping Rivers over the much superior Brees. They'd probably have back to back titles right now with Brees at the helm.

BINGO

[boltaneer]

Ah back to the old Rivers vs Brees debates. Good times!

[sixtimeseight]

It's not a debate. Brees' numbers dwarf Rivers' in all aspects of the game. The only people that think there's some sort of "debate" are idiot Chargers fans, the rest of the country can see what a horrible move it was to get rid of Brees.

[Kaylore]

Ah back to the old Rivers vs Brees debates. Good times!

Debate? I don't think anyone without brain damage could argue that Rivers is better.

[Atlas]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/specials/preview/2008/08/20/merriman.knee.ap/index.html


SAN DIEGO (AP) -- San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, who has missed more than a week of practice because of a sore left knee, said Thursday night that he has ligament damage and is evaluating his options.

The trouble is "a loose ligament and (I'm) waiting to get more info on what I need to do," Merriman said in an e-mail to the North County Times.

Merriman underwent surgery to repair cartilage damage five months ago but has had persistent pain in the knee during training camp. He traveled this week to Birmingham, Ala., so the knee could be examined by Dr. James Andrews, who performed the operation.

Merriman last played in the Aug. 9 preseason opener against Dallas and has not practiced since then.

Coach Norv Turner said he hoped that Merriman will be able to play on Sept. 7 when the Chargers open their regular season against the Carolina Panthers.

"I think he can be close to 100 percent and get back with some real good rehab work," Turner said. "He's been doing a great job with it and I think he just needs some more time right now."



Would be sweet if he was out for 2nd game of year

What a pussy. You know John Elway played 16 years in the NFL without an ACL. Merryboy should watch some footage maybe he would grow a sac.

[boltaneer]

I don't recall Brees winning any Super Bowls with the Saints so far.

Brees is a great QB. I liked the guy a lot and I still do. I follow Saints games just because of him but Rivers is a better fit for this offense and it has shown. But QB play wasn't the factor in both losses to New England. 2006 was a combination of Marty, McCree and the WRs (mainly Eric Parker). 2007 was just bad luck with injuries.

Brees is a perfect fit in Sean Peyton's offense and things worked out great for both teams. Both teams and their fans seem to be happy with how things turned out.

[sixtimeseight]

I don't recall Brees winning any Super Bowls with the Saints so far.

durrrrrrrrrrrrrr

So by that same impeccable logic, Dilfer's a better QB than Marino, right? I mean he has a ring after all.

[400HZ]

durrrrrrrrrrrrrr

So by that same impeccable logic, Dilfer's a better QB than Marino, right? I mean he has a ring after all.

Ok smartass. Marino and Dilfer had DIFFERENT teams. Brees and Rivers had THE SAME team.

[Inkana7]

Not really. Did Brees have Marcus McNeil? An experienced Merriman? Shaun Phillips started 3 games in Brees' last year. Keenan McCardell was his best WR.

Rivers has a much better team than Brees ever did.

[sixtimeseight]

Not really. Did Brees have Marcus McNeil? An experienced Merriman? Shaun Phillips started 3 games in Brees' last year. Keenan McCardell was his best WR.

Rivers has a much better team than Brees ever did.

And Brees still put up much better numbers in his last two years with San Diego than Rivers ever has. Seriously, it's not a debate, Brees is a top-5 QB in the league, Rivers is league average or worse.

[boltaneer]

Brees and Rivers both had great seasons in 2006.

But looking at last year, both Brees and Rivers regressed last year, Brees more than Rivers IMO. I'm not going to lean fully on the 'learning Norv's new offense' excuse completely but I think it warrants some consideration. The bright spot with Rivers concerning last year was that he came on strong at the end of the year.

Brees also came back a little stronger towards the end of the year but he never seemed to get back to the level at where he once was. Losing Deuce was a big blow but otherwise I really didn't understand what the problem was exactly.

[400HZ]

Not really. Did Brees have Marcus McNeil? An experienced Merriman? Shaun Phillips started 3 games in Brees' last year. Keenan McCardell was his best WR.

Rivers has a much better team than Brees ever did.

Brees had a very good left tackle in 2004 and most of 2005 when Roman Oben was still playing. Kennan McCardell was Brees' best receiver in 2005, and then Eric Parker was Rivers' best receiver in 2006 (when he was healthy.) Shaun Phillips started 3 games in Brees' last year because Steve Foley was still on the roster scaring the **** out of people.

[400HZ]

Brees had a very good left tackle in 2004 and most of 2005 when Roman Oben was still playing. Kennan McCardell was Brees' best receiver in 2005, and then Eric Parker was Rivers' best receiver in 2006 (when he was healthy.) Shaun Phillips started 3 games in Brees' last year because Steve Foley was still on the roster scaring the **** out of people.

http://www.deadspin.com/assets/resources/2006/09/foleyangry.jpg
God that guy was scary.

[sixtimeseight]

Brees and Rivers both had great seasons in 2006.

But looking at last year, both Brees and Rivers regressed last year, Brees more than Rivers IMO. I'm not going to lean fully on the 'learning Norv's new offense' excuse completely but I think it warrants some consideration. The bright spot with Rivers concerning last year was that he came on strong at the end of the year.

Brees also came back a little stronger towards the end of the year but he never seemed to get back to the level at where he once was. Losing Deuce was a big blow but otherwise I really didn't understand what the problem was exactly.

Brees' great 2006 season: 4418 yds, 64.3 comp %, 27 td/11 int, 96.2 rating
Rivers' "great" 2006 season: 3388 yds, 61.7 comp %, 22 td/9 int, 92.0 rating

Brees' "regressed" 2007 season: 4423 yds, 67.5 comp %, 28 td/18 int, 89.4 rating
Rivers' regressed 2007 season: 3152 yds, 60.2 comp %, 21 td/15 int, 82.4 rating


Seriously, stop pretending it's close. It's not.

[Kaylore]

Brees also came back a little stronger towards the end of the year but he never seemed to get back to the level at where he once was. Losing Deuce was a big blow but otherwise I really didn't understand what the problem was exactly.

:spit: You mean he never came back to league MVP numbers? Gosh what a loser Brees is for not repeating that. Hilarious!

[bowtown]

Brees is a great QB. I liked the guy a lot and I still do. I follow Saints games just because of him but Rivers is a better fit for this offense and it has shown.

This is the kind of stuff a guy says about his new average girlfriend after he has been dumped by a much hotter one.


Angela is a great girl. I liked that girl a lot and I still do. I'm friends with Steve now just because she's now dating him, but Ruth is a better fit for me and it has shown.

[XXXshogunXXX]

Brees had problems winning in Denver, where Rivers, doesnt. He's 4-0 against the donks... no wonder you guys hate him.

[PRBronco]

This is the kind of stuff a guy says about his new average girlfriend after he has been dumped by a much hotter one.

Bahaha, owned by a metaphor!

[cmhargrove]

Brees had problems winning in Denver, where Rivers, doesnt. He's 4-0 against the donks... no wonder you guys hate him.

To be honest, Rivers hasn't really done much of the winning. Can you honestly say Rivers has done the heavy lifting for the team? Usually he makes as many bonehead plays as good ones.

Without Antonio Gates, his passing numbers would have been pretty sad. (Although Vincent looks like a darn good receiver).

Rivers has benefitted from a tremendous defense, field position, and skilled offensive unit. Put him at a lesser team, and he could well have lost his job by now. He looks good because the team lifts him, not vice versa.

[PRBronco]

Brees had problems winning in Denver, where Rivers, doesnt. He's 4-0 against the donks... no wonder you guys hate him.

Oh. Oh I see what you did there. Instead of Broncos, you took Donkeys, and shortened it to Donks. Meaning that a Donkey is something to be ridiculed. And thusly ridiculing us. That's fresh, I really like it. No I'm serious, have you guys seen this? Have you seen what XXXshogunXXX has done? He turned "Broncos" into "Donkeys" and then shortened it to "Donks". That's...I mean, are you a professional writer? Are you on a comedy tour? I'm serious, stuff like this will get you noticed. Do the Chiefs fans know about this? That's phenominal, they'll get a huge kick out of it. I mean it's just so novel. Calling a team something other than what its mascot actually is, and then shortening it. Shoot. How has no one done this before? Hats off to you friend. You are a man among internet posters.

[Spider]

Didn't Marshall have a torn PCL? You can come back from one with therapy and rest.

depends ....... a wr doesnt do the things a like backer does , mainly the leg "pushing " when tackling or blocking ....WR basically and fights down the field ...and this conclude this weeks episode of dr .Spider ;D

[boltaneer]

Oh. Oh I see what you did there. Instead of Broncos, you took Donkeys, and shortened it to Donks. Meaning that a Donkey is something to be ridiculed. And thusly ridiculing us. That's fresh, I really like it. No I'm serious, have you guys seen this? Have you seen what XXXshogunXXX has done? He turned "Broncos" into "Donkeys" and then shortened it to "Donks". That's...I mean, are you a professional writer? Are you on a comedy tour? I'm serious, stuff like this will get you noticed. Do the Chiefs fans know about this? That's phenominal, they'll get a huge kick out of it. I mean it's just so novel. Calling a team something other than what its mascot actually is, and then shortening it. Shoot. How has no one done this before? Hats off to you friend. You are a man among internet posters.

Donks, Chuggers, Chefs, Faiders...

It's all immature babble. Fans of every team do it, yet I don't really understand why. Just call them by their real names.

[PRBronco]

Donks, Chuggers, Chefs, Faiders...

It's all immature babble. Fans of every team do it, yet I don't really understand why. Just call them by their real names.

Haha, yeah it's unfortunate none of them really work very well. I think queefs is about as good as it gets.

[Spider]

We scored 6 points against them last year so it's not like we lit their defense up. Say what you wan't about the guy but im not going to complain if he isn't playing against us. Especially with Marchall out

even with out Mary-Man , we will struggle , we will always struggle against 3-4 teams 3-4 is a WCO killer

[Bronx33]

Babble??




I think not!

[Hotrod]

This is the kind of stuff a guy says about his new average girlfriend after he has been dumped by a much hotter one.

Debate over Ha!

[sirhcyennek81]

he could take some more steriods to heal faster...


Has a tendency to destroy the elasticity of tendons...


:Broncos:

[Hotrod]

Donks, Chuggers, Chefs, Faiders...

It's all immature babble. Fans of every team do it, yet I don't really understand why. Just call them by their real names.

Ok have it your way

Broncos, Chiefs, Raiders, eternal losers....

Ok fine I'm bored.

[Spider]

Donks, Chuggers, Chefs, Faiders...

It's all immature babble. Fans of every team do it, yet I don't really understand why. Just call them by their real names.
Real names ? San Diego butt pirates ...........San Diego Jealous of L.A. rump Rangers .......San Diego we would love to be like San fransico ,but we cant afford a bridge

[sirhcyennek81]

Real names ? San Diego butt pirates ...........San Diego Jealous of L.A. rump Rangers .......San Diego we would love to be like San fransico ,but we cant afford a bridge


Thats cold. I like San Diego Pillow Biters myself though...


:Broncos:

[Spider]

Thats cold. I like San Diego Pillow Biters myself though...


:Broncos:

LOL , San Diego , we want to be the San Fransisco pillow bitters of SoCal .....

[theAPAOps5]

Ok have it your way

Broncos, Chiefs, Raiders, Tijuanian Midget ****ers
Ok fine I'm bored.

I like this version!

[Dedhed]

I'll say it before, and I'll say it again here. When Rivers has to be a leader in SD, the Chargers are in touble.

[sirhcyennek81]

I'll say it before, and I'll say it again here. When Rivers has to be a leader in SD, the Chargers are in touble.


Oh yeah.


:Broncos:

[Bronx33]

I'll say it before, and I'll say it again here. When Rivers has to be a leader in SD, the Chargers are in touble.


Agreed he has the luxury of a great supporting cast ( that's why his mouth got so big) without them he will be average the typical little guy standing behind the big guy (punk).


I will go on record and say somebody is going to drill rivers this season and hopefully it's after he runs his little piehole.

[TheDave]

I can't believe we are on page 2 and no one has blamed this on "Steroids"...

[PRBronco]

Agreed he has the luxury of a great supporting cast ( that's why his mouth got so big) without them he will be average the typical little guy standing behind the big guy (punk).


I will go on record and say somebody is going to drill rivers this season and hopefully it's after he runs his little piehole.

Haha, when someone (Apa?) posted those "givin him the bidness" videos the other day, all i could think was "omg someone do that to Rivers".

[Los Broncos]

Those tattoos will look stupid if he has to retire.

[bowtown]

Those tattoos look stupid.

Fixed it for you.

[Los Broncos]

Fixed it for you.

That's more like it, thanks.

[oubronco]

I can't believe we are on page 2 and no one has blamed this on "Steroids"...

it's the fuggin steroids !!!

[Nidzge]

Wow. So it's more than just speculations.

Shawne Merriman revealed Saturday that his career could be over. In addition to a torn PCL, Merriman has a torn LCL in his left knee.
His knee requires extensive reconstructive surgery. Perhaps Merriman will chance it and play this year, but that would be foolish. His contract is up after the 2009 season and if he has the procedure, Merriman could try continuing his career afterwards. He'd risk more damage by playing on the knee in 2008. He needs to be removed from IDP draft boards.

[theAPAOps5]

Holy **** profootballtalk might have nailed it. I can't stand the dude and think he is a little bitch but I wouldn't wish this on anyone. Hopefully he can make it back.

By the way post the link to that article as I am sure thats the first thing you will hear.

[Bronx33]

Wow. So it's more than just speculations.

Shawne Merriman revealed Saturday that his career could be over. In addition to a torn PCL, Merriman has a torn LCL in his left knee.
His knee requires extensive reconstructive surgery. Perhaps Merriman will chance it and play this year, but that would be foolish. His contract is up after the 2009 season and if he has the procedure, Merriman could try continuing his career afterwards. He'd risk more damage by playing on the knee in 2008. He needs to be removed from IDP draft boards.



We got fans in freaking serbia!!! welcome brother!

[theAPAOps5]

I just caught that myself. Welcome Nidz

[Nidzge]

Holy **** profootballtalk might have nailed it. I can't stand the dude and think he is a little b**** but I wouldn't wish this on anyone. Hopefully he can make it back.

By the way post the link to that article as I am sure thats the first thing you will hear.

I found it on the rotoworld:
http://www.rotoworld.com/Content/playernews.aspx?sport=NFL

[Nidzge]

We got fans in freaking serbia!!! welcome brother!


Well been fan for a long time (and already 3 years on the orangemane ;D ).

[theAPAOps5]

Man he needs to get surgery. No sense risking it.

[PaintballCLE]

espn is reporting from several "inside sources" that he is leaning towards "season ending" surgery to repair both ligiments.!

[broncofan2438]

espn is reporting from several "inside sources" that he is leaning towards "season ending" surgery to repair both ligiments.!

wow, thats huge, but that tells you he is looking forward to the future

[SonOfLe-loLang]

I dont understand how he has two torn ligaments in his knee but Chargers doctors have cleared him to play.

[broncofan2438]

I dont understand how he has two torn ligaments in his knee but Chargers doctors have cleared him to play.

good question

[Bronx33]

I dont understand how he has two torn ligaments in his knee but Chargers doctors have cleared him to play.


I agree something is fishy in this story.

[theAPAOps5]

I dont understand how he has two torn ligaments in his knee but Chargers doctors have cleared him to play.

May speak to the ineptitude of San Diegos Doctors.

[Bronx33]

Well been fan for a long time (and already 3 years on the orangemane ;D ).


My brother inlaw is a bojohn i just hate it when he breaks out that gawd damned Slivovitz :P

[PaintballCLE]

I dont understand how he has two torn ligaments in his knee but Chargers doctors have cleared him to play.

well last i heard they weren't "torn" just damaged. Dont know what they mean by that though.

[Rugby7]

Maybe they they don't care. He will be leaving anyways and they have a chance to win now.

[Bronx33]

well last i heard they weren't "torn" just damaged. Dont know what they mean by that though.



wink wink

[sixtimeseight]

I wonder if this will delay his lengthy and thorough investigation into how his supplements got tainted.

[s0phr0syne]

Hope he makes the smart choice to try and recover in 2008 and make the rebound in 2009, if he can.

[boltaneer]

Jyles Tucker, come on down!

[theAPAOps5]

We will see if he what you say he is Bolt!

[Bronx33]

Jyles Tucker, come on down!


Does he have any light switch tattoos or stupid sack dances in his resume? ;D

[gunns]

well last i heard they weren't "torn" just damaged. Dont know what they mean by that though.

Appears they are torn.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-chargers-merriman&prov=ap&type=lgns

[NW Bolt Fan]

Brees had problems winning in Denver, where Rivers, doesnt. He's 4-0 against the donks... no wonder you guys hate him.BINGO.

[ohiobronco2]

Appears they are torn.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-chargers-merriman&prov=ap&type=lgns

Jeez, the Chargers have had some bad luck when it comes to injuries. Gates having the toe injury. Everyone is well aware of Rivers and LT having injuries. Now this with Merriman. They could return to being a mediocre football team sooner than later. A lot of their star players have big pay days coming up, going to be tough for AJ to decide who to keep because they won't be able to keep them all.

[TomServo]

BINGO.

as in bingo the broncos have never sucked enough to get the number one pick in the draft several times in less than a decade?
charger fans remind me of jags fans a few years back. they also thought the good times would last forever and a superbowl would easily come before the window closed.
the clock is ticking. and the broncos- a rare losing season is behind us and looking up, the chargers had the best chance they ever had the last two years couldnt get it done.
and p.s. i respect any team or player that beats us and acts like an adult male-a man-we dont like rivers because hes had success against us. just as the entire league does,we hate him because hes an immature lil punk.

[400HZ]

Chargers suck and Phillip is a big mean asshole is all standard fare here, but getting back to Merriman, it really sucks. The reasonable and responsible thing to do is to have the reconstructive surgury and hopefully make it back into top form by next year so he can get a second contract, but he wants to play and wants to help his team this year. We all thought the injury bug sucked ass least year when teh Chargers werer playing in the AFCCG with a shell of their starting roster, but those injuries screwing us over even into the next season is freaking riduculous. The Chargers are going to have to rediscover themselves all over again this season I think.

[400HZ]

Your boy Scherleth is right on about it. Shawne needs to look out for his future and nobody with anny brains will fault him for that.

[JJJ]

Your boy Scherleth is right on about it. Shawne needs to look out for his future and nobody with anny brains will fault him for that.

I wish they would sign him to a long term deal and then have the reconstructive surgery. That would give him the security he needs to get it fixed right and make it worth it to the Chargers to give up a year of his services. But that looks like it definitely won't happen. Think AJ has already made up his mind.

Gonna hate seeing him in 2010 in a Raven uniform.

[cmhargrove]

Merriman has two torn ligaments
Story Highlights
He said doctors agree that he needs surgery to repair the damage
He has also been warned he could suffer a career-ending injury if he plays
Merriman has made the Pro Bowl in each of his three NFL seasons





SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Chargers Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman said Saturday he has two torn ligaments in his left knee and has been told by doctors that he could suffer a possible career-ending injury if he attempts to play without having surgery.
Merriman said he has tears in both the posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments. He said doctors agree that he needs surgery to repair the damage.
"It could be career-threatening if I did (play)," Merriman said. "It's a possibility. That possibility is still open."
A course of action has not been decided. Merriman, who will consult with a doctor in Miami early next week before making a decision, has been told reconstructive surgery would sideline him for the entire 2008 season. Another option is a less-invasive surgery that would allow him to play at some point in the season.
"They've all said the same things about the injury," Merriman said. "(They're) kind of surprised that I've been playing with it up to this point."
The Chargers open the regular season Sept. 7 against the Carolina Panthers. Merriman wants to play this season.
"That's first and foremost," Merriman said. "That's what I want to do. That's why this decision is even out there still and not already made, because I want to play, period. The question is what should I do? How long should I play with it?
"It's a thousand different options at this point and I'm just trying to make the best one."
Merriman left the team Tuesday to seek opinions from other doctors, a trek that included a visit with renowned surgeon James Andrews on Wednesday in Birmingham, Ala. He said he is seeking as many opinions as he can for a reason.
"I'm just trying to make the best decision possible for the team and for my career," Merriman said.
Coach Norv Turner has remained optimistic all week that Merriman will be able to play this season. He again expressed that hope Saturday.
"Right now, in talking to him, his mind-set is he's doing everything he can to get ready for Carolina, our opener," Turner said. "He just wants to get a little bit more information on his knee."
Merriman has made the Pro Bowl in each of his three NFL seasons. He has 391/2 sacks in that span, more than any other NFL player.
Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

[theAPAOps5]

I was reading an article over on the San Diego Tribune and he is thinking of playing on it even with the advise not to. That is dumb. He is 24 years old and sacrificing one season for a longer future should be a no brainer. The doctors say with those two ligaments torn its really difficult to brace and its not a matter of if his season will end early but when.

So just get it fixed and come back strong next year. Thats my .02 cents.

[boltaneer]

I was reading an article over on the San Diego Tribune and he is thinking of playing on it even with the advise not to. That is dumb. He is 24 years old and sacrificing one season for a longer future should be a no brainer. The doctors say with those two ligaments torn its really difficult to brace and its not a matter of if his season will end early but when.

So just get it fixed and come back strong next year. Thats my .02 cents.

I completely agree.

[400HZ]

I was reading an article over on the San Diego Tribune and he is thinking of playing on it even with the advise not to. That is dumb. He is 24 years old and sacrificing one season for a longer future should be a no brainer. The doctors say with those two ligaments torn its really difficult to brace and its not a matter of if his season will end early but when.

So just get it fixed and come back strong next year. Thats my .02 cents.

Even with the injury, Shawne can play at a high level. We saw that at the end of last season, and that was with a torn meniscus thrown in to the mix as well which should be healed by now. It's not worth risking his future on, though. My gut feeling is that he's going to risk it.

[telluride]

I wonder if this will delay his lengthy and thorough investigation into how his supplements got tainted.

O.J. is handling that investigation.

[theAPAOps5]

Even with the injury, Shawne can play at a high level. We saw that at the end of last season, and that was with a torn meniscus thrown in to the mix as well which should be healed by now. It's not worth risking his future on, though. My gut feeling is that he's going to risk it.

Its not a matter of if he can play at a high level its a matter of why risk it. Get the knee right instead of making it worse.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

Even with the injury, Shawne can play at a high level. We saw that at the end of last season, and that was with a torn meniscus thrown in to the mix as well which should be healed by now. It's not worth risking his future on, though. My gut feeling is that he's going to risk it.

Schlereth actually brought up an interesting point on my he should get the surgery. If he plays this year and doesnt do as well (which is probably what will happen) he'll get a lot of "atta boys" for being a warrior, but come contract time they'll tell him that his play was down and he was limping out there. If he gets the surgery now, he can come back next season with a healthy knee and put up better numbers to ensure a better contract and longer career.

[Bronx33]

Schlereth actually brought up an interesting point on my he should get the surgery. If he plays this year and doesnt do as well (which is probably what will happen) he'll get a lot of "atta boys" for being a warrior, but come contract time they'll tell him that his play was down and he was limping out there. If he gets the surgery now, he can come back next season with a healthy knee and put up better numbers to ensure a better contract and longer career.


Or he will never be the same again with either senerio so the chugger gamble on his future play or they don't ( this should be interesting) what the chugger GM decides.

[theAPAOps5]

Stink also said that if you let injuries like this get worse then you start uttering the words degenerative and arthritis, and career shortening. Of all people Stink should know.

[Clockwork Orange]

Stink also said that if you let injuries like this get worse then you start uttering the words degenerative and arthritis, and career shortening. Of all people Stink should know.

We're all too familiar with those things around here. We had a pretty good player of our own cut down far too early because of just that.

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/writers/dr_z/10/06/mailbag/t1_terrell.davis.jpg

Be smart, Shawne. You're still closer to the beginning of your career than the end.

[watermock]

Norv know his window is short, and apparently the decsiicion hot to re-sign him LT has llready been made.

This is a no brainer if Shawn want's to play more than 5 years..

[theAPAOps5]

We're all too familiar with those things around here. We had a pretty good player of our own cut down far too early because of just that.

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/writers/dr_z/10/06/mailbag/t1_terrell.davis.jpg

Be smart, Shawne. You're still closer to the beginning of your career than the end.

Exactly which is why I say he should get it right rather than get by!

[400HZ]

Exactly which is why I say he should get it right rather than get by!

I agree. I hope Shawne does, too.

[broncofan2438]

I still am not buying any of this crap until he makes a decision. This could be way blown out and then he has a great season and everyone loves him bla bla bla bla

[Bronx33]

I still am not buying any of this crap until he makes a decision. This could be way blown out and then he has a great season and everyone loves him bla bla bla bla


I agree and lets not forget his 10 year old tatooist has yet to put the final touches on his lightswitch and has plans for another tattoo of a dimmer switch on his other arm.

[Inkana7]

Brees and Rivers both had great seasons in 2006.

But looking at last year, both Brees and Rivers regressed last year, Brees more than Rivers IMO. I'm not going to lean fully on the 'learning Norv's new offense' excuse completely but I think it warrants some consideration. The bright spot with Rivers concerning last year was that he came on strong at the end of the year.

Brees also came back a little stronger towards the end of the year but he never seemed to get back to the level at where he once was. Losing Deuce was a big blow but otherwise I really didn't understand what the problem was exactly.

Brees started out the first 4 games or so last year throwing like 1 TD and 10 picks, after that, he was completely lights out.

[Cito Pelon]

SD had a +24 TO ratio last year. That won't happen again this year.

[boltaneer]

Probably a sign that Merriman is going to be out for the year.

http://chargers.com/news/headlines/chargers-lock-up.htm

"Linebacker Jyles Tucker and cornerback Steve Gregory became the seventh and eighth Chargers since last December to receive new contracts as the two young players signed new deals Monday."

[theAPAOps5]

The team should make the decision for him and place him on IR. Then again they may want to use him as much as they can with him potentially signing elswhere after his contract is up.

[Inkana7]

Probably a sign that Merriman is going to be out for the year.

http://chargers.com/news/headlines/chargers-lock-up.htm

"Linebacker Jyles Tucker and cornerback Steve Gregory became the seventh and eighth Chargers since last December to receive new contracts as the two young players signed new deals Monday."

Or not resigned at all.

[boltaneer]

Or not resigned at all.

That too. ;)

Our local Chargers beat writer has gone on record and has made a bold predition that the Chargers have no interest in re-signing Merriman after 2009.

[azbroncfan]

Charger fans think that they can plug in this Tucker guy and see no drop off. I think they will see how good of a player Merriman is and can't be blocked one on one.

[Inkana7]

That too. ;)

Our local Chargers beat writer has gone on record and has made a bold predition that the Chargers have no interest in re-signing Merriman after 2009.

I can see that. It depends on how this knee thing goes. The smartest thing to do would be to take the season-ending surgery now. If he waits until after the season or just gets it scoped, he risks ending his career(worst case) or not playing in 2009, a contract year(best case).

[boltaneer]

Charger fans think that they can plug in this Tucker guy and see no drop off. I think they will see how good of a player Merriman is and can't be blocked one on one.

Really? Where did you hear this?

I know a lot of Charger fans who are high on Tucker but I've yet to hear anyone think there isn't going to be some drop off. He'll be replacing one of the best pass rushers in the NFL.

[watermock]

He plays on it he risks everything. He won't.

[Popps]

Charger fans think that they can plug in this Tucker guy and see no drop off. I think they will see how good of a player Merriman is and can't be blocked one on one.

Did someone say blocked one-on-one?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXeAG2VuBo0

[Inkana7]

Did someone say blocked one-on-one?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXeAG2VuBo0

Exhibit A as to why I think Shawne Merriman had a down year last year without the juice. He was almost a non-factor for the first half of the season, and then feasted on Kansas City and Oakland's stellar line.

[Los Broncos]

He is still young, sit this year out, its not worth it.

[Los Broncos]

Did someone say blocked one-on-one?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXeAG2VuBo0

Any dude walking the streets would be killed from a hit like that.

He just gets right back up, man NFL players are tough dudes.

[theAPAOps5]

I can't get enough of that hit on Merriman. I only wish MJD would have done the lights out dance over his pathetic ass.

[Los Broncos]

I can't get enough of that hit on Merriman. I only wish MJD would have done the lights out dance over his pathetic ass.

That would of been sweet.

[400HZ]

Charger fans think that they can plug in this Tucker guy and see no drop off. I think they will see how good of a player Merriman is and can't be blocked one on one.

Who said that?

[boltaneer]

Who said that?

No one. That's why there isn't a response.

[bronco610]

I hope he plays and finishes off his career. If he is stupid enough to even risk it he needs to be gone.

[watermock]

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TXkDAQnnNbc&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TXkDAQnnNbc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Florida_Bronco]

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TXkDAQnnNbc&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TXkDAQnnNbc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Looks like that wasn't the only time he got popped that night.

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/O3uM3d42b6M&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/O3uM3d42b6M&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Eldorado]

No one. That's why there isn't a response.

Some idiot on another board:

"Shawne is fast and has racked up the sacks, but he isn't all that great against good tackles and doesn't have great moves. I've watched him very closely and he basically tries to bull rush every time. He's an adequate tackler, nothing too spectacular and above average in coverage. "

Personally I think the doltz should extend his current contract by one year and let him come back into a contract year.

[Atlas]

I just read on CNN that San Diego is one of the only teams in the AFC that pressured the opposing QB less than 10% of the passing downs. If this is true the loss of Mary-man is going to hurt them.

All I say is that they better not give Cutler all day to throw the ball.

[400HZ]

I just read on CNN that San Diego is one of the only teams in the AFC that pressured the opposing QB less than 10% of the passing downs. If this is true the loss of Mary-man is going to hurt them.

All I say is that they better not give Cutler all day to throw the ball.

There was a definite shift in the Chargers defense last year from attacking to playing more passively. The front seven that is usually so vicious struggled while the pass D that is usually so mediocre cashed in 30 ints. A big part of that weird trend was teams playing more max protect on passing downs.

By the way, Jay Cutler was hurried on 9.2% of pass plays last year, the lowest percentage in the league.

[broncofan2438]

1st and Ten ripping on Chuggers right now

[theAPAOps5]

1st and Ten ripping on Chuggers right now

Well that doesn't help us who are work! What are they saying?

[gyldenlove]

I agree and lets not forget his 10 year old tatooist has yet to put the final touches on his lightswitch and has plans for another tattoo of a dimmer switch on his other arm.

That dimmer switch is a good idea, he strikes me as one of the dimmer bulbs to come out of the American college system.

Would his knee have been strong enough IF he hadn't swallowed his own bodyweight in steriods? will we ever know? think up more questions on your own and tune in tomorrow.

[Atlas]

By the way, Jay Cutler was hurried on 9.2% of pass plays last year, the lowest percentage in the league.

Yep, and his OL is much better and he has another year of experience. It's going to be a great year for the offense.

[Punisher]

I think he stuck that syringe a little too deep near those ligaments

[TheDave]

I think he stuck that syringe a little too deep near those ligaments

Or he might of just ****ed it up the good ol' fashioned way... Playing football ;)

[boltaneer]

Gutsy or stupid? I'm leaning towards stupid:


http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/chargers/20080827-9999-1bn27chargers.html

August 27, 2008

Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman has decided to begin the season despite two torn ligaments in his left knee, he said this morning.

“I'm going to play,” Merriman said via text message to the Union-Tribune. “I'll deal with it when it's time to get surgery.”

Merriman, who returned from South Florida on Tuesday night, has decided against the recommendations of doctors to forego reconstructive surgery on the posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments. Those doctors also told him he could play but that he risks what he described as “career-threatening” injury if he does.

The Chargers always have been optimistic Merriman would play. He was medically cleared by the team before training camp.

Merriman, 24, has been to the Pro Bowl in each of his three NFL seasons. He embarked on a national tour to see orthopedists in the past week, the final stop being Coral Gables, Fla., on Monday and Tuesday. The specialist there was his fifth opinion, counting the Chargers.

None of these specialists told Merriman of any new injury, but they provided recommendations independent of the team. According to sources, all the doctors he saw in the past nine days could not believe he was still playing. They said the best course of action long-term was for him to have the ligaments reconstructed.

Merriman, whose contract with the Chargers expires after 2009, faces that surgery at some point, even if he were to make it through this season. He also has been told he should not be surprised if he can't play at the level to which he is accustomed.

The Chargers open the season Sept. 7 against the Carolina Panthers at Qualcomm Stadium.

[Inkana7]

Extremely stupid. On all levels.

[broncofan2438]

Well, thats just another stupid mistake that he will have to live with. Whatever, let it get worse for all we care

[Man-Goblin]

If four different doctors told me to suck donkey stick I would probably do it.

[ohiobronco2]

I wonder what they are saying on the Charger forums. Could be complete and total meltdown?

[ohiobronco2]

Hello!!!! Can anybody hear me?!!!!! Kind of strange, I'm the only one on the site.

[BroncoDoug]

I wonder what they are saying on the Charger forums. Could be complete and total meltdown?

Well go to their site and report back if its total meltdown...

[DenverBrit]

Can NFL players get 'injury' insurance, or is it all down to the clubs to work out a settlement.
I would think that Merriman negates any claim if he plays after 4 docs say 'surgery' is required.
WTF is SD thinking, allowing Merriman to play?

[400HZ]

For anyone interested:

Merriman's two ligament tears and when they occurred<!-- END STORY TITLE -->

UNION-TRIBUNE

August 28, 2008
Posterior cruciate ligament: Merriman suffered this tear, which he has classified as a grade three, the worst it can be, in his second NFL game. It happened while he was running down to cover the opening kickoff in an exhibition game Aug. 26, 2005, at Minnesota. Players have played their entire careers with this injury. The PCL provides front-to-back stability.
Lateral collateral ligament: This injury happened Dec. 9 at Tennessee and became an immediate source of friction. At the time, Merriman called the hit by Kevin Mawae and David Stewart a “cheap shot,” and game tape made it appear so. In fact, the league fined Mawae and Stewart. The severity of Merriman's LCL tear is unknown, but with a tear of any degree Merriman will experience side-to-side instability. – KEVIN ACEE


<!-- END:SafeMode --><!-- endclickprintinclude -->

[alkemical]

Look, i use txt'ing a lot - but seriously - how can you cite a txt message as a credible source - it's silly -

[Ambiguous]

For anyone interested:

Merriman's two ligament tears and when they occurred<!-- END STORY TITLE -->

UNION-TRIBUNE

August 28, 2008
Posterior cruciate ligament: Merriman suffered this tear, which he has classified as a grade three, the worst it can be, in his second NFL game. It happened while he was running down to cover the opening kickoff in an exhibition game Aug. 26, 2005, at Minnesota. Players have played their entire careers with this injury. The PCL provides front-to-back stability.
Lateral collateral ligament: This injury happened Dec. 9 at Tennessee and became an immediate source of friction. At the time, Merriman called the hit by Kevin Mawae and David Stewart a “cheap shot,” and game tape made it appear so. In fact, the league fined Mawae and Stewart. The severity of Merriman's LCL tear is unknown, but with a tear of any degree Merriman will experience side-to-side instability. – KEVIN ACEE


<!-- END:SafeMode --><!-- endclickprintinclude -->

So he played a good chunk of the season last year with this same injury? Or it got worse in training camp/preseason?

And no, I didn't read this whole thread.

[400HZ]

So he played a good chunk of the season last year with this same injury? Or it got worse in training camp/preseason?

And no, I didn't read this whole thread.

He played week 16, 17, the wild card, divisional, and conference cc games with it. He also had surgury to repair a torn meniscus after the season ended. I guess the PCL tear isn't a big deal, but paired with the LCL tear it becomes an issue. I think he played without a brace, too.

The Chargers medical staff recommended reconstructive surgury after the season ended, but Merriman declined.

[jayman_37]

Shawne Merriman can make up to an additional $1.5 million in escalators. He is risking not only his '09 salary (currently approximately $3.7 million) but possible future earnings. Signals point to the Chargers not re-signing Merriman when his contract is up after 2009. And if he were to suffer a catastrophic injury, they could release him after this season. -- San Diego Union-Tribune

http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20080828/news_1s28chargers.html

[Bronx33]

http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/1378/budkilmerkg2.jpg

What the hell are you looking at you no-talent p***Y? Of course he’s gonna play! He’s all about hard work, commitment, dedication, team play…but I wouldn’t expect you to know anything about that! You don’t agree? Well cry me a river you fat ****ing baby. This is a man’s game and so help me God no little scrape on the knee is going to keep #56 from tearing ass all over that field this year. I have people that can fix him right up, I made him understand what we are about around here and no fancy schmancy doctor is gonna change that. And don’t for one minute think you are going to bring that tissue soft primadonna Lance Harbor bull**** into this discussion. That panty waist mama’s boy would rather chase tail and gel his hair than buck up and play football. Merriman’s playing and thats that you simple bastard. You know what…get the hell outta here, get out before I lose my temper!


http://union.sportsblognet.com/2008/08/28/shawne-merrimans-trusted-advisor/

[Beantown Bronco]

"The Doctor scanned my cat, he says I can play."

[alkemical]

Tweeter drank beer, cuz well - tweeter drinks beer.....

[GreatBronco16]

And Billy Bob cried, well cause Billy Bob is a crier.

[400HZ]

C'mon, that movie sucked.

[TheReverend]

Week two, by half time, he's done and getting surgery and hoping for a successful rehab.

Anyone who thinks it won't be a Harris, Graham, and Sapp party cutting him all day long AT the knee undervalues the stupidity of what the Chargers are doing with him.

[broncofan2438]

Week two, by half time, he's done and getting surgery and hoping for a successful rehab.

Anyone who thinks it won't be a Harris, Graham, and Sapp party cutting him all day long AT the knee undervalues the stupidity of what the Chargers are doing with him.

I totally agree, bring on the chop blocking

[GreatBronco16]

C'mon, that movie sucked.


Any movie that has a woman wearing a whip-cream bikini, does not suck mister.:approve: