Merriman's Plight Bleak

Here's an interesting article about the whole 'tainted supplement' defense. That link also cites the NFL policy on taking supplements and is summed up best by it's opening line:

“You and you alone are responsible for what goes into your body. Claiming that you used only legally available nutritional supplements will not help you in an appeal."

The article also does say that yes, some supplement companies will lace their products with steroids to get good reviews. But I think the NFL has a good policy and should have a zero tolerance level. Now granted, if Merriman's case is legit and he is somehow exonerated from these charges I would be pleasantly surprised.

The Chargers rap sheet since training camp: Steve Foley (LB) shot 3 times before the season starts, Terrance Kiel (DB) gets busted shipping codeine based cough syrup, Markus Curry (CB - practice squad) was arrested and since dismissed from the team for domestic assault and now Shawne Merriman (LB) tests positive for steroids. 2 weeks ago some sports analysts had the Chargers as one of the top 5 teams in the NFL. A loss to Kansas City and Merriman's plight have them dropping quickly.

If the Chargers can battle through these adversities as well as all the current injuries on defense, it might be the building blocks for a playoff run. Of course, such obstacles can often times be the foundation for disaster.