Shawne Merriman
Shawne Merriman The Associated Press is reporting that San Diego Chargers Pro Bowl Linebacker Shawne Merriman will undergo season-ending surgery to repair two torn ligaments in his knee. Merriman had hoped to put off the surgery and play through the pain in 2008, but after he barley resembled himself in the Chargers opener he informed his team he would be having the surgery.
 
Chargers general manager, A.J. Smith said in a statement, "Shawne informed me he did not feel right and thought it best t shut it down." Smith went on to say, "The road to winning the AFC West just got more difficult. Nothing is impossible. Shawne is a great player and an inspirational leader. He will be missed. We wish him a successful surgery and a speedy recovery."

Merriman, whose earned the nickname "Lights Out", has had an NFL high
39 1/2 sacks and been elected to three Pro Bowls in the last three seasons was a shell of himself in the Chargers 26-24 lose on Sunday. Even though Merriman only had two tackles and did not make an impact, coach Norv Turner said he thought Merriman looked "explosive and very physical."

Before the start of the season Merriman was reportedly told by four different doctors that he would need surgery and if he played, could do further damage. Merriman knew he would need this surgery at some point, but thought he could play out the season.

Immediately following Sunday's loss to Carolina in the final seconds, Merriman told reporters that his knee was pretty sore, but otherwise felt OK. He did not let on at that time he would not continue to play.

Merriman felt he could play after doctor's tests indicated he shouldn't, apparently his knee did not pass his own test.