Lights Out for Merriman

Lights Out: Merriman misses season

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The San Diego Chargers will have to make their expected Super Bowl bid without star linebacker Shawne Merriman after he was ruled out for the rest of the season.

The hard-hitting defensive leader, with the nickname 'Lights Out' had an NFL-high 39.5 sacks over the last three seasons which led to three straight Pro Bowls.

However, Merriman suffered torn knee ligaments during pre-season and was told be several doctors that surgery was the only answer, but given the choice eh announced that he would play on.

That move backfired though as Merriman made just two tackles during the Chargers' last-minute upset loss against the Carolina Panthers in their season opener on Sunday.

Now Merriman will need the operation and will be out for six to seven months, leaving the Chargers without one of their star men for the season.

"Shawne informed me he did not feel right and thought it best to shut it down," Chargers general manager AJ Smith said in a statement.

"The road to winning the AFC West just got more difficult, but not impossible. Nothing is impossible.

"Shawne is a great player and an inspirational leader. He will be missed. We wish him a successful surgery and a speedy recovery."

San Diego were down as one of the Super Bowl favourites this season but the news of Merriman's injury is another big blow after their shock loss against the Panthers on opening day.