"Lights Out", Maybe Out of San Diego

Source: Associated Press

Once the most dominating defensive player in the NFL, Merriman gradually became a burden to the Chargers. He hasn’t been able to stay healthy and he wasn't very productive in the little time he's played. For all of his scandals and squabbles — the contractual theatrics, the offseason absences, the hollywood lifestyle, the positive drug test and the negative dalliance with Tila Tequila — Merriman’s unforgivable sin was losing a step in the football field.

Create enough havoc on the opposing Quarterback, and a football team will gladly handle a few headaches. But lose a little burst and every false step starts to seem critical. In making the procedural move Wednesday that will ultimately result in Merriman’s release, the Chargers essentially declared that “Lights Out” is no longer worth the headaches.

They are saying that they prefer to swallow at least $2 million of Merriman’s 2010 salary rather than dedicate a roster spot to a player of dubious productivity. If another team claims Merriman on waivers, the Chargers would stand to receive some salary relief, but the driving force here is desperation. The Chargers are 2-3, have been hemorrhaging linebackers, and can ill afford to keep players around as sideline spectators.

The Chargers still thought Merriman is sufficiently serviceable to warrant a $3.269 million tender offer for the 2010 season. But it has not gone well for him. He is not healthy to play for the San Diego Chargers for two to three weeks, maybe less than that.

To some, Merriman is forever tainted by the four-game suspension he served in 2006 following a positive drug test. That he nonetheless led the NFL with 17 sacks that season, while playing in only 12 games, would suggest there was more to the man than anabolic steroids. Some would date Merriman’s decline to his failed drug test have yet to adequately account for his success later that season or his 12½ sacks in 2007.

More likely, Merriman reached his career crossroads on Dec. 9, 2007 in Tennessee against the Titans, on cheap shot by Tennessee’s Kevin Mawae and David Stewart. Both player's were fined,but they succeeded in shredding ligaments in Merriman’s left knee.

"Lights Out" has not been the same players since. Shawne Merriman used to be an extraordinary player, was the toughest defensive end/outside linebacker in football. His size, speed and explosiveness me him one of the most feared player in the league.

Good luck out there Lights Out, thanks for the great memories. You made it fun to watch Chargers football, when healthy.