Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman wants a new contract

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawn Merriman has stated he would like to remain a Bolt. Merriman has long felt frustrated by the perception he is not going to be in San Diego long-term. His contract will expire in February and he will be a restricted free agent. Merriman recorded 39.5 sacks and went to the Pro Bowl three times in his first three seasons before having season-ending knee surgery one game into his fourth year, in 2008. In 2009-10, the linebacker had only four sacks, but played extremely well against the New York Jets in the Bolts’ playoff loss. He was playing through a painful foot injury, but finished the season on a positive note. However, Chargers manager A.J. Smith has expressed displeasure with some of Merriman’s off-field pursuits, and the team was not pleased he waited several months to have surgery last year. While being able to play less than a year after surgery, Merriman’s doctors told him he will not recover until the second season back. The linebacker has never publicly indicated that he wanted to leave the Bolts. Merriman told the press, “Of course I’d like to be here. I’ve said that a billion times. I was 20 years old when I got drafted and came to San Diego. But I want to feel comfortable playing football. And not knowing whether you’re wanted or not is not a comfortable feeling.”

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