Merriman draws ban of 4 games

SAN DIEGO – 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.

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 were not immediately returned.

Merriman, who started in the Pro Bowl as a rookie, is second on San Diego with 5 1/2 sacks.

Besides Merriman’s suspension, the Chargers have had other off-field issues this year dating back to April.

Linebacker Steve Foley was shot by an off-duty police officer who suspected him of drunk driving, Safety Terrence Kiel was arrested on felony drug charges and cornerback Markus Curry was arrested on suspicion of domestic abuse.