San Diego's star linebacker Shawne Merriman has decided to go ahead and play instead of undergoing season-ending surgery to repair two torn ligaments in his left knee.
Merriman, 24, told the Chargers of his decision Wednesday morning, the team's website reported.
Merriman spoke publicly on the weekend about his tough decision, saying he was told he has tears in both the posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments in his knee.
He has reportedly seen five different specialists to get opinions regarding his injury.
The linebacker said he knew he was risking a potentially career-ending injury by playing without undergoing the surgery.
Merriman has reached the Pro Bowl in each of his first three NFL seasons. He has recorded 39½ sacks and forced eight fumbles in that time.
With files from the Associated PressBonds still stuck on 753 home runs
San Francisco Giants outfielder Barry Bonds remains stalled at 753 career home runs following Thursday's 4-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves at AT&T Park.
Turnover game hurting struggling Sharks
Maintaining possession of the puck will be critical for the San Jose Sharks if they want to avoid going down 3-0 in their Western Conference semifinal series against the hometown Dallas Stars on Tuesday (6:30 p.m. CT).
World Series won't resume till Wednesday at earliest
With rain still falling in Philadelphia, Major League Baseball decided that it won't try to complete Game 5 on Tuesday night.
Contact Us About Us HomeMonday, December 1st, 2008