Shawne Merriman

Shawne DeAndre Merriman, born on May 25, 1984, is an American former professional football linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). Known by his nickname 'Lights Out', Merriman played college football for the Maryland Terrapins before being drafted 12th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 2005 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and went on to record quarterback sacks in his first three seasons. Merriman made three Pro Bowls and earned two All-Pro selections. However, injuries hampered his performance in the following years, and he was waived by the Chargers in 2010. He briefly played for the Buffalo Bills before retiring in 2012.