Shawne Merriman Is A Warrior; Chargers, NFL Will Miss Him

NFL news just isn’t getting any better today, now that we’ve learned that the ever-so talented Shawne Merriman is out for the season.

He reportedly knew that he had a significant injuries to his knee by January, but he decided he wanted to play this year, and who can blame him after his team came so close to going to the Super Bowl?

Based on reports I heard tonight, it appears that Merriman will face a long rehabilitation that could really delay his full return for not next season but the following season, due the injuries' severity.

The good news is that he should have full use of his knee and be able to play just as well as he does now. If his passion for the game is any indication, let's hope the prognosticators tonight are incorrect that he will be back in full form not in one but two years.

This young man has led the NFL in sacks with 39 1/2 in his three full seasons. In 2006, he had 17 sacks.

He has made an immediate impact on his team's defensive prowess much like 49er Ronnie Lott did when Coach Bill Walsh drafted him, although that first year, the 'Niners went to the Super Bowl and beat Cincinnati.

Had Merriman had surgery months ago, there is a chance that he could have returned this season, but who could fault a guy who thought his left knee could make it through the season?

He's 24, optimistic, passionate and talented beyond belief. All Merriman wanted to do was play, so I respect him for the warrior he is. He's the kind of man you would want in a foxhole with you because he goes all out, there are no frills and has no  pretensions.

In other words, he brings it and he motivates others by his leadership.

Good luck, Shawne. I'll say some prayers for your quick and full recovery. In return for such divine intervention, I only ask you to take it easy on the 'Niners if they appear on your future schedule.

Just kidding.