Shawne Merriman : 2005 Draft Day Picks

Shawne Merriman was born in Upper Marlboro, Maryland on May 25, 1984. Many people also know Merriman by his nickname “lights out.” He has everything that a good defensive player needs to succeed in the NFL. To go along with a high level of athletic ability, he also plays smart, hits hard, and is willing to do whatever it takes to win. Merriman has been playing like this for many reasons, and this is why he has become one of the best players in the entire league.

Merriman played his college football at the University of Maryland. It was here that he finally got to showcase all of his talent to the rest of the world. Not only did he get the job done on the field, but he also served as a leader of the Terrapins football team. By the time he was a junior NFL teams had started to take notice of what he had to offer.

After his junior season at Maryland, Merriman opted to declare himself eligible for the 2005 NFL Draft. This led to him being chosen 12th overall by the San Diego Chargers. Although his rookie campaign started off slow, Merriman cracked the starting lineup in week seven. He ended his rookie season with 57 tackles and 10 sacks. This was good enough to earn him the 2005 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Award.

Despite only playing in 12 games due to a steroid suspension, Merriman had another great year in 2006. He led the league in sacks with 17, and also chipped in 62 tackles and one interception. Merriman was named to the Pro Bowl after the 2006 season, and is well on his way to a great career. Through hard work and determination Merriman has built himself into one of the top defensive players in the NFL. And this is not going to change anytime soon.