Linebacker to tough it out

San Diego linebacker Shawne Merriman intends to play with two torn knee ligaments during the 2008 season.

The three-time Pro Bowler plans to put off surgery on his damaged posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments until a yet-to-be determined date in the future.

The 24-year-old has consulted several doctors - all of whom say he requires an operation at some point - before making the decision.

"To be as simple as possible, I just want to play football," Merriman was quoted as saying on the NFL's official website.

"That's what it comes down to. I know what's on the table, I know what's on the line.

"I put a lot of work in this and I want to play."