Report: Merriman determined to play

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- San Diego all-pro linebacker Shawne Merriman intends to play during the 2009 season despite two torn left knee ligaments, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

The newspaper reported earlier this week that he was told recommendations from doctors and other advisers were that he undergo surgery on his left knee immediately and get ready for 2009, but the former first-round pick by the Chargers in the 2005 NFL draft out of Maryland has visited five specialists for opinions.

It added that no doctors could believe Merriman had been playing through the injuries in the preseason, and at some point will need surgery.

Noted orthopedic surgeon, Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala., performed an arthroscopic procedure on the knee this spring, but Merriman experienced some pain in the joint in training camp.

The 6-foot-4 inch, 272-pounder has been a Pro Bowl selection in each of his three NFL seasons and made 12 1/2 sacks last season.