Report: Merriman to be suspended

[irish_blue69]

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman will be suspended four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, according to a report posted Sunday night on ESPN.com.
The 22-year-old Merriman, last year's NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, was initially to be suspended last week alongside two other players, the Web site reported, citing people with knowledge of the suspension whom the report did not identify.
Guard Mark Lehr of the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions defensive tackle Shaun Rogers began serving their suspensions this week. But Merriman's suspension was delayed because he reserved the right to appeal, ESPN.com said.
The report did not specify when the suspension would begin, but Merriman would be eligible to return Nov. 26 against the Oakland Raiders if he sat out immediately.
"Per the collective bargaining agreement, the Chargers aren't allowed to comment on reports or results involving the league's substance abuse policy," Chargers spokesman Bill Johnston said Sunday night.
Merriman had seven tackles, one assist and no sacks in Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Chiefs in Kansas City. The team was flying home Sunday night and messages left by The Associated Press for several Chargers officials, including head coach Marty Schottenheimer, were not immediately returned.
Merriman, who started in the Pro Bowl as a rookie, is second on San Diego with 51/2 sacks.
Besides Merriman's suspension, the Chargers have had five separate off-field issues dating back to April.
Outside linebacker Steve Foley was shot three times outside his suburban home on Sept. 3 by an off-duty police officer who suspected him of drunk driving. Foley will miss the entire season and was charged with two counts of DUI.
Safety Terrence Kiel was arrested on five felony drug counts in September and has pleaded not guilty.
Cornerback Markus Curry, who had been demoted to the practice squad, was released on Oct. 9, just hours after he was arrested on suspicion of committing domestic violence.
Foley and linebacker Shaun Phillips were each arrested for scuffling with San Diego police officers a week apart in April. Neither was charged.

SI.com - NFL - Report:*NFL suspends Merriman*for steroids - Monday October 23, 2006 12:00AM

[ptco911]

They will drag this out as long as they can with appeals to help the Chargers chances at making the playoffs.

[Woodmonkey]

As much money as these prima donnas make, why don't they just boot them and get some new talent? It's out there, these aren't the only ones who are good.

[ptco911]

They sure wouldn't be as leaniant on the average citizen. We would get fired in a heartbeat.