Shawne Merriman!

by Ramah71 on Sep 6, 2010 1:35 PM PDT

Get this guy on your team, and you lead the league in sacks. You can also start thinking about more than just making the playoffs, but going deeper as well. If we sign Merriman, we could find ourselves in the NFC championship. He plays ROLB, same position as Parys Haralson. A lot of people probably are going to counter that Haralson is still developing and has a lot of potential. True. However, Merriman is 3 months younger than Haralson, and already is a star. I would argue that I'd rather have an established star who is one of the best right now than someone of a comparable age and will reach his peak later. After all, Merriman has 43.5 sacks in 57 games played (including 17 sacks in 12 games during the 2006 season), and is every QB's nightmare. He would be even more effective here in SF with a stronger overall D around him than in San Diego. His SB Nation scouting report:

Assets	One of the best edge rushers in the NFL. Can beat most left tackles off the ball. Has several moves and can get inside his blocker. An effective point-of-attack defender because he slips tackles so well. Hits hard and will jar the ball loose.
Flaws	Rarely drops into coverage and isn't great when he does it. Often seems lost in open space and doesn't have elite speed to make plays in pursuit.
Career Potential	Perennial Pro Bowler.

Guess who else is described as a perennial pro bowler in their SB Nation scouting report? Patrick Willis. This is a 3 time Pro Bowler at 26 years of age. It's scary to think how good our defense can be with this guy around.

The reason he might be available is because the Chargers are a declining team (this is debatable) and could be had at a lower price due to his recent injury history. I think Haralson and a 2nd and 3rd rounder in 2011 would do it. After all, the Chargers want a similar package for Vincent Jackson. I would be glad to give up a 1st round pick for Merriman, since he is that good. What do you think? Please post why Merriman is/isn't a good fit for the Niners, and/or what you think his trade value should be.

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of Niners Nation's writers or editors. It does reflect the views of this particular fan though, which is as important as the views of Niners Nation's writers or editors.

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Comments

No Merriman.

Without steroids, and with a reconstructed knee, he’s a much more mediocre player. Besides, he’s a T.O.-grade asshat. With the right coach, you can take a certain number of these guys in your locker room, but we’ve already got some people with some history of off-field issues or obnoxious personalities. After a certain point it becomes overwhelming and can sink your team.

by asleepinSF on Sep 6, 2010 1:48 PM PDT reply actions