Merriman has torn knee ligaments

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SAN DIEGO, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- Two torn left knee ligaments likely will prevent San Diego Chargers all-pro linebacker Shawne Merriman from playing in the 2008 NFL season.

The former first-round draft pick has been a Pro Bowl selection in each of his three NFL seasons, and insists he will be on the field in 2008.

The former Maryland University star visited noted sports surgeon Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala., last week to get a prognosis.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported Sunday that a source said the recommendations from doctors and other advisers is that he undergo surgery on his left knee immediately and get ready for 2009.

The 6-foot-4 inch, 272-pounder underwent an arthroscopic procedure on the knee this spring and has experienced some pain in the joint in training camp.

"There's a group of people that are going to get together," Coach Norv Turner said on the team's Web site. "He's seeing doctors(and) we're going to try to reach a conclusion."