Star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman is practicing with the San Diego Chargers just more than 24 hours after being released from jail.

Merriman was arrested early Sunday and accused of choking and restraining reality TV star Tila Tequila as she tried to leave his suburban home. He spent about 2 1/2 hours in the downtown jail.

Merriman said in a statement late Sunday that he was worried for Tequila's safety because she appeared to be intoxicated and he didn't want her to drive. Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant.

Merriman's attorney Todd Macaluso says his client did nothing wrong and claimed he was "trying to protect the safety of Miss Tequila."

Asked if Merriman was trying to keep her from driving drunk, Macaluso said he didn't want to comment on her conduct, but that his client "did everything in his power to ensure her safety."

Police say deputies determined Tequila had been drinking.

Tequila is best known for "A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila," which ran for two seasons on MTV. Police say she signed a citizen's arrest warrant, accusing Merriman of battery and false imprisonment.