SAN DIEGO -- Linebacker Shawne Merriman told the San Diego Chargers on Wednesday that he has elected not to undergo surgery on his injured left knee, and instead will try to play this season despite reportedly having two torn ligaments.

According to a Wednesday story in the San Diego Union-Tribune, Merriman, a Pro Bowl selection in each of his three seasons in the league, has visited five specialists for opinions on his knee.

The paper said that the specialists have all recommended that Merriman have reconstructive surgery on the posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments, and that he faces the possibility of career-threatening injury if he tries to play without surgery.

None of the doctors could believe that Merriman had been playing through the injuries in the preseason, according to the paper. Even if he does make it through this season, the paper said, Merriman will have to undergo the surgery at some point to repair the ligaments.

Merriman has not participated in practice since playing the preseason opener on Aug. 9. Taken 12th overall by the Chargers out of Maryland in 2005, Merriman has quickly distinguished himself as one of the best at his position, particularly on the pass rush. He has compiled 39 1/2 sacks in three seasons, including 12 1/2 in 2007.