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Merriman worried about knee

Posted Aug. 22 at 11:51 AM

The Chargers are our top fantasy defense, and Shawne Merriman is a top-30 option in leagues that use Individual Defensive Players. Both of those rankings appear in jeopardy with Merriman experiencing soreness in his left knee -- an injury that at best could limit his on-field effectiveness, and at worst could require surgery, ending his season before it begins.

According to San Diego Union-Tribune staff writer Kevin Acee, Merriman's options appear to be rehab, where he wouldn't miss any time (but it may not be effective); minor surgery, where he'd miss the start of the season; or reconstructive surgery, which would cost him the season. Merriman led the team with 12.5 sacks a year ago; his likely replacement would be second-year linebacker Jyles Tucker, who saw spot duty in six games a year ago. Clearly, this would be a considerably less imposing defense without Merriman.

Merriman wants to play and will likely play, but will he be the same player? Either way, it's fair to wonder if this would be the same defensive group. Acee's story can be read right here.

—Andy Richardson

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