LIGHTS OUT...for good?

We've all heard the recent news regarding Shawne "Lights Out" Merriman and his lingering knee problem. And now with reports that he has both LCL, and PCL damage there's a likelihood that he may need that surgery after all. The question is whether it will be minor surgery to stabalize his knee and keep him out several weeks, or the full reconstructive surgery that would keep him sidelined for the season.

It's interesting to note that his contract expires at the end of the 2009 season. If Merriman were to have the reconstructive surgery, that would leave him the 2009 season to get back to his All-Pro status. More important would be his status as a Charger after the 2009 season. A.J. Smith is known for being a no nonsense kind of guy, in that once he sets the value of a football player, it's his way or the highway. A.J. Smith doesn't 'low-ball' athletes, but he also doesn't fall for the hype that any agent or stats present.

One one hand you can see Merriman returning to his 2006 form, where he led the league in sacks while only starting half the season, or he could have an 'average' year with 6- 8 sacks. His 2009 season will drastically affect the type of contract he would be offered by the Chargers.

The Chargers are not afraid to shy away from damaged goods. In 2006, the Chargers drafted Antonio Cromartie with the number 19th overall pick, despite missing his entire junior season with Florida State recovering from a torn ACL.

Whether Merriman has the minor surgery or opts for reconstructive surgery, he is an invaluable part of the Charger defense, who have led the NFL in sacks (149) since Merriman has been with the Chargers. Interestingly enough, the Chargers only amassed 98 sacks in the previous three seasons before Merriman was drafted in 2005.

Sacks don't tell the whole story. Countless times has Merriman made a key play to him a game. Whether it's tripping Peyton Manning on a fourth down play when the Indianapolis Colts were poised for the endzone, or recovering a causing a fumble during a playoff game, Merriman has an instinct for being at the right place at the right time.

With the looming thought of having to sign key players in the following years (Philip Rivers, Marcus McNeil, and Antonio Cromartie) it is important for the Chargers to think long and hard on their decision with Merriman. It is a crucial time for the San Diego Chargers franchise. With the window of opportunity closing in, will Merriman be the guiding light, or will the Chargers seek alternative energy? Power outage concerns in San Diego, go figure.