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The San Diego Chargers will start their minicamp withouth three key players, as Vincent Jackson, Marcus McNeill and Shawne Merriman will not report to training camp with the other veteran players on Friday.

Merriman told the San Diego Union-Tribune on Thursday that he will not report until the Chargers can promise him job security and a secure role with the team.

I need to know Im not going to be on the trade block every three weeks, Merriman said. Its not about me wanting more money. I will show what I deserve. I dont have to ask for it. I feel like Ive proved wehat Im worth and I will still prove it. To me, it really comes down to, Am I on the trading block this week? The third week of the season, am I on the block? Where is that comfortability for me?

Merrimans name was floated in trade rumors, specifically during Aprils NFL draft when his agent at the time was involved in the discussions.

The three-time Pro Bowl linebacker is a restricted free agent and was tendered at a first and third-round pick by San Diego in March. He has not yet accepted the offer, which would pay him $3.269 million this year.

Merriman has not said how long he will hold out.

Wide receiver Jackson and offensive tackle McNeill are both unhappy with their contracts. They have said they will hold out until they get their desired long-term deals. Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said that the team is not interested in any such deals at this time and the Chargers are preparing for the season without both players.