Shawne Merriman Biography: Shawne DeAndre Merriman, born on May 25, 1984, and widely known by his nickname “Lights Out,” is a former American professional football player who played as a linebacker in the NFL. He made a name for himself at the University of Maryland, where he played college football for the Maryland Terrapins. Merriman was selected 12th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 2005 NFL Draft and had an immediate impact, earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Over his first three seasons, he racked up 39.5 sacks, earned three Pro Bowl selections, and was named All-Pro twice. However, Merriman’s career was significantly affected by injuries over the following three seasons. In 2010, the Chargers released him midseason, and he was subsequently claimed off waivers by the Buffalo Bills. .
Shawne Merriman Biography
Shawne Merriman was once among the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers, even leading the league in sacks at the height of his career. His impressive performance on the field earned him substantial compensation through various contracts and extensions, with career earnings estimated at over $22 million. These earnings don’t account for his numerous endorsement deals and business ventures, which further boosted his financial success. Despite being a multi-millionaire, Merriman was left in awe by his experience at the world-renowned Monaco Grand Prix.
Shawne Merriman Biography 2025 Details
| Born: | May 25, 1984 (age 40) Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Height: | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight: | 261 lb (118 kg) |
| High school: | Douglass (Upper Marlboro, Maryland) |
| College: | Maryland (2002–2004) |
| NFL draft: | 2005: 1st round, 12th pick |
| Category | Football Biographies |
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About Shawne Merriman
Shawne DeAndre Merriman, nicknamed “Lights Out”, is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League. He played college football for the Maryland Terrapins and was selected 12th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 2005 NFL draft.
Shawne Merriman Wiki
- Born: 25 May 1984 (age 40 years), Washington, D.C., United States
- Education: University of Maryland
- 40 yard dash time: 64 seconds
- Number: 56 (Los Angeles Chargers / Linebacker), 56 (Buffalo Bills / Defensive end)
- Height: 93 m
- Position: Linebacker, Defensive end
- Parents: Gloria Williams
Early Life
Merriman grew up in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and gained his nickname “Lights Out” while attending Frederick Douglass High School. The nickname was born from a game in which he knocked out four opponents—three in the first half and one in the second. A standout athlete, he was a three-year varsity player in both football and basketball. The Washington Post named him one of the top five defensive basketball players in the D.C. area. In football, Merriman was a dominant force, earning first-team all-state honors and being named the Maryland Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press during his senior year. He also played tight end in high school.
Shawne Merriman Overview
- Category: Richest Athletes › NFL Players
- Net Worth: $13 Million
- Birthdate: May 25, 1984 (Age: 40)
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C.
- Gender: Male
- Height: 6 ft 3 in (1.93 m)
- Profession: Former NFL Player, Actor
- Nationality: United States
College Career
Merriman stayed in-state for college, attending the University of Maryland, College Park in 2002. As a freshman, he played in 13 games and logged five sacks. Despite injuries in his sophomore year, he played every game and had a breakout junior season, earning a spot on the ACC All-Conference team.
NFL Career Highlights
Merriman was drafted in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Chargers and signed a five-year, $11.5 million contract. He made an immediate impact, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and a Pro Bowl spot. In 2006, despite a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s steroid policy, he led the league with 17 sacks in just 12 games. He continued to dominate in 2007 with 12.5 sacks and helped the team reach the AFC Championship Game.
Injuries started to take a toll, beginning with torn knee ligaments in 2008. After attempting to play through the pain, Merriman ultimately had surgery and missed the entire season. His return in 2009 and 2010 was limited due to ongoing knee and foot issues, eventually leading to his placement on injured reserve and release from the team.
Media and Entertainment
Outside of football, Merriman appeared on various TV shows, including MTV Exposed, Entourage, and Destroy Build Destroy. He also participated in The Challenge: Champs vs. Pros and made several appearances with WWE, such as Monday Night RAW and One Night Stand in 2008. He has been featured in advertisements for major brands like Nike and MusclePharm.
Legal Issues
In 2009, Merriman faced allegations from ex-girlfriend Tila Tequila, who accused him of choking and restraining her. The charges were dismissed. In 2017, he was named in a wrongful death lawsuit after a woman, Kimberly Fattorini, was found dead following a nightclub incident. The suit alleged that Merriman had drugged her drink.
Shawne Merriman’s Net Worth 2025
Shawne Merriman, a former professional football player, has an estimated net worth of $13 million. He played in the NFL for the San Diego Chargers and the Buffalo Bills. Known for his explosive start, Merriman was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2005 and earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors during his career. Due to recurring injuries, he retired from professional football after the 2012 season.
FAQs
How did Shawne Merriman get the nickname “Lights Out”?
Shawne Merriman earned the nickname “Lights Out” in high school after a standout football game where he knocked out four opposing players, showcasing his aggressive and powerful playing style.
What college did Shawne Merriman play for?
Merriman played college football at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he had a standout junior year that earned him All-ACC honors and helped solidify his status as an NFL prospect.
What happened to Shawne Merriman’s career after his Pro Bowl seasons?
Following his early Pro Bowl success, Merriman’s career was plagued by injuries, including severe knee and Achilles issues, which significantly limited his playing time and effectiveness before his retirement.
Why did Shawne Merriman retire from the NFL?
Merriman retired from the NFL in 2013 due to a string of injuries that included knee ligament tears and Achilles problems, which ultimately prevented him from returning to peak form.
Has Shawne Merriman appeared in WWE?
Yes, Shawne Merriman has made several appearances in WWE, including spots on Monday Night RAW and the One Night Stand pay-per-view event in 2008, blending his athletic persona with sports entertainment.
Was Shawne Merriman involved in any controversies?
Merriman has faced a few legal controversies, including a 2009 incident involving Tila Tequila, which was later dismissed, and a wrongful death lawsuit in 2017 connected to the death of a woman at a nightclub.