Of Mice And Merriman

*Update*

All offseason we have heard the term “window of opportunity” in relation to the Chargers.  The belief is that the Chargers can only be good for as long as their star players are in their prime and, of course, still Chargers.  One of the strengths of GM AJ Smith is his ability sign his core players to contract extensions, which has given the team tremendous security through the 2009 season.  But after the 2009 season, well, this could be a team with a different look to it.  Four young, big-name players have contracts coming due after the 2009 or 2010 season:  Philip Rivers, Marcus McNeill, Antonio Cromartie, and Shawne Merriman, in addition to others.  In a perfect world the Chargers sign all of these guys to fat contract extensions and we let the team become a dynasty.  In reality, it’s unlikely that there will be enough money for everyone. 

In today’s San Diego Union Tribune, we saw evidence that Merriman may be the one to go.  (For more info, check out this article by Kevin Acee).

Merriman was already having a bad week.  He has been sitting out most of training camp to rehab a surgically repaired left knee that never seemed to heal.  A trip to a specialist confirmed that his knee is still far from perfect, with the primary concern being a torn posterior cruciate ligament.  While it might be possible to play through the pain this season, it’s also possible that he will need season ending knee surgery.

Now Merriman is facing scrutiny from his own front office.  AJ Smith made public comments regarding his unhappiness with Merriman’s extra-curricular activities, which include weekly TV appearances on Fox Sports Net, and other endorsements and marketing appearances.  And we all know that there is always a point to AJ’s comments. 

It seems as though AJ is trying to send a message to his star LB, something like “Stay focused on your day job,” or possibly even, “Your days are numbered wearing a Chargers jersey.”  Whatever he is trying to tell Merriman, I think the message to fans is clear:  it’s likely that Lights Out won’t be a Charger past his current contract.

That’s disheartening news, but I’m most concerned about this season.  The Chargers are on the verge of something special, and a healthy and happy Shawne Merriman makes them a better team.  I believe we could lose him and be all-right, but if the injuries mount…Williams, Castillo, maybe a DB…we could be looking at another depleted roster come playoff-time.  Yes, we could overcome an injury to Merriman, but it sure isn’t how you want to start.

Today Merriman is in New York undergoing further evaluation on his injured left knee.  Stay tuned!

*Update*

After obtaining a 2nd opinion, Merriman has been prescribed rest for his hurting left knee.  I’m unsure how long he’ll be out.  More to come…