"The Chargers will begin training camp today without each of their three unhappy veterans and almost certainly without their featured rookie.

Linebacker Shawne Merriman broke the suspense Thursday and said he will not report to camp on time, joining receiver Vincent Jackson and left tackle Marcus McNeill.

And if there were any negotiations between the Chargers and first-round pick Ryan Mathews, they didn't begin until late Thursday. Mathews, however, might be just slightly tardy.

The Chargers were waiting for players around the 12th spot to come in, and a source said Thursday that the 49ers had reached an agreement with No.?11 pick Anthony Davis.

It is possible, too, that Merriman might stay away only a short time.

But he doesn't feel that is up to him. "