San Diego linebacker suspended for steroid use

12:10 p.m.

SAN DIEGO - San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman will be suspended four games for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy, according to an ESPN story.

ESPN.com reported the 22-year-old Merriman, a former Maryland Terrapin, initially was to be suspended last week along with two other players.

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.

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-to-27 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.