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Shawne Merriman Undergoes Surgery:

Shawne Merriman, San Diego Chargers linebacker, underwent surgery recently to repair torn ligament in his left knee. His injury mirrors that of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady’s: season-ending.

Merriman chose to play the first game during the 2008 NFL season with torn ligaments but announced afterward that surgery was scheduled. His only game was against the Carolina Panthers, were they lost 26-24. He racked up two tackles but no sacks in the game.

According to an NFL spokesman, Merriman was also fined for unnecessarily striking Carolina quarterback, Jake Delhomme, below the knees. His fine stands at $7,500. Delhomme was not injured.

Merriman was born on May 25, 1984 in Washington, D.C. He attended the University of Maryland and drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He currently is held under a 5-year, $11.5 million contract. His first year into the NFL, Merriman recorded six sacks in his first four starts. He was voted into the Pro Bowl the same year. He delivered his best game of the year when the Chargers defeated the Indianapolis Colts for their first loss of the season in Week 15.

During the 2007 - 2008 NFL season, Merriman recorded 189 tackles, 39.5 sacks and 1 interception. His career awards include being voted twice as First- team All-Pro (2005, 2006), one time Second-team All-Pro (2007), three time Pro Bowl selection (2005, 2006, 2007) and AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2005). He has played for the Chargers since 2005.