Chargers LB Merriman will report for training camp despite contract issue

Just like other Chargers’ veterans such as wide receiver Vincent Jackson and left tackle Marcus McNeill, the San Diego Chargers outside linebacker Shawne Merriman is also making his efforts to get a long-term contract from the team. But unlike Jackson and McNeill, Merriman does not plan to hangout in his favorite Brett Favre jersey during the training camp. Instead, he is planning to be a full participant in the camp.


At age 26, Merriman is now almost two full years removed from reconstructive knee surgery, and working out in training camp would be helpful in improving his strength. Even if he wants to leave to play in New Orleans Saints jerseys once the contract talks breaks, Merriman still needs a good health condition to prove he can be valuable to the defending champion team.

"Because of the things he’s been through, he would benefit greatly from having a full, great training camp and getting back to doing the things he does healthy," coach Norv Turner told The San Diego Union-Tribune. I don’t care who you are, if you’re not 100 percent … there are things you can’t do that you used to do, you’re not instinctive. The way you get those things back is by going 100 mph and practicing."

Seahawks RB Washington will be fine for training camp

Taking off New Orleans Saints jersey to join the Seattle Seahawks, running back Leon Washington seems eager to work with the new team. The 2008 All-Pro running back had to spend most of this offseason on recovering from a broken leg, but he told reporters recently that he would be fine for Seahawks’ training camp in late July.


Washington became expendable after his former team had a new running back LaDainian Tomlinson and it was no surprise that he was traded during the three-day NFL draft for a higher round draft pick. But to Seahawks, the addition of a running back like Washington was much more important than drafting a talented rookie. It was expected that Washington would take the starting job with the Seahawks. And if his leg allows him to return in time for training camp, Washington’s starting job would somewhat secured.

The All-Pro as a kick returner for the 2008 season made $535,000 in the final year of his rookie deal, and he had been asking for a significant salary raise before he broke the leg. The second-round tender he received from his former team was worth $1.759 million, far less than Washington’s expected $5 million to $6 million. The Seahawks have made it clear that they would consider giving Washington a chance to prove whether he is worth that much.