ESPN NFL

Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson

One of the reasons there is so much optimism in San Diego heading into the season was the return of a healthy Shawne Merriman. The Chargers were not the same team without Merriman and his return has been met with great excitement.

However, Merriman’s return took a potentially troubling turn early Sunday morning. He was arrested for battery and false imprisonment after an incident with his girlfriend.

This could become a major distraction for the Chargers and for Merriman. The incident is now subject to review by the NFL and Merriman could potentially face a suspension under the NFL’s personal conduct policy.

This is not a good way for the Chargers and Merriman to start the season. The Chargers were not the same defense last season when Merriman missed all but one game after a knee injury. Merriman makes the Chargers a special defense.

With the situation looming, it gives San Diego an unexpected issue to deal with as the season approaches.

If Merriman were to miss an extended period of time, the Chargers probably would turn to top pick Larry English. Like Merriman, English is a pass-rushing linebacker. The team planned to use both of them at the same time. One of the reasons why English was drafted was if Merriman suffered a setback in his return or if he were to leave as a free agent, which potentially could happen as soon as next winter.