Shawne Merriman back in the house

Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, who has missed the first two weeks of training camp in a contract dispute, signed his restricted free-agent tender Friday and reported to the team.

Merriman has been concerned about the team trading him and wanted assurances that they'd keep him at least through the season. Even though San Diego apparently made no such promises, Merriman returned to the team. It's a one-year deal worth $3.269 million.

Merriman returned last year from knee surgery and had an off year with just four sacks. From 2005-07, he led the NFL with 39 1/2 sacks. In 2008, he missed 15 games after tearing knee ligaments.

The Chargers are still without two prominent players, both of whom are out because of contract situations. Restricted free agents Marcus McNeil, the team's starting left tackle, and Vincent Jackson, a starting wide receiver, have yet to sign their tenders.