Redskins SS Brandon Meriweather out for the season

After a lengthy rehab process that finally got him back on the field, Redskins SS Brandon Meriweather played only one game before injuring his ACL. He is out for the season.

By John Keim

Nov 19, 2012 at 6:56 pm ET • 1 min read

Redskins SS Brandon Meriweather had a productive game against the Eagles on Sunday that included this interception, but an ACL injury will keep him out the remainder of the season. (US Presswire)

Redskins SS Brandon Meriweather tore his right ACL in Sunday's 31-6 win over Philadelphia, ending his season after just one game. Meriweather had missed the first nine games because of a left knee injury and finally returned Sunday.

He was not hit on the play, which occurred in the third quarter. After the game, Meriweather said he could have returned, but sat out the rest of the game because the Redskins led by a comfortable margin. Meriweather missed time in the preseason with a left knee injury and he re-injured himself the week before the season opener. He was set to return Sept. 30 at Tampa Bay, but a pre-game collision resulted in another injury to his left knee.

“He was obviously shocked, disappointed,” Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said of Monday's results. “He loves football. He has an energy out there, one of the reasons we brought him in. It’s unfortunate because he’s been healthy [before this season]. Hopefully he can take care of that and be back next year ready to go.”

Meriweather made an instant impact with seven tackles and an interception. He played with speed and energy, two things the Redskins were in need of -- particularly in the secondary.

DeJon Gomes or Reed Doughty will replace Meriweather. Gomes had started the first three games, but his play did not improve and he was benched for Doughty. Gomes is faster than Doughty, but the latter is more consistent.

John Keim covers the Redskins for the Washington Examiner. Follow him on Twitter @CBSRedskins or @John_Keim.