Who Is Shawne Merriman? Age, Biography and Wiki
Shawne Merriman, born on May 25, 1984, is an American football player who gained fame as a linebacker in the NFL. Standing out for his incredible skills during his prime years, Merriman carved a niche for himself with the San Diego Chargers and the Buffalo Bills. As of 2025, Shawne Merriman is 40 years old. His journey took him from a promising athlete in high school to a notable football star within the NFL, where he played from 2005 to 2016.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 25, 1984 |
| Age | 41 Years |
| Birth Place | Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Horoscope | Gemini |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Shawne Merriman's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm) and weighing approximately 250 pounds (113 kg), Shawne Merriman exemplifies the physical attributes required for a successful linebacker. Over the years, he has maintained optimal fitness levels, making him a formidable presence on the field.
On October 13, the Chargers announced that Merriman was being placed on injured reserve and, per NFL rules, would be released when he became healthy. Merriman had re-injured his calf against Oakland and had been limited in the first five weeks of the season. Merriman was put on waivers by the Chargers on November 2, 2010. He had only four sacks in his last three seasons in San Diego.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Shawne Merriman's relationship status remains under the spotlight. He has been linked with several notable personalities in the past. Currently, there have been rumors suggesting he is dating a well-known figure, but no official confirmation has been made. Merriman values his privacy when it comes to personal relationships but has mentioned the significance of family in various interviews.
On September 6, 2009, Merriman was arrested and charged with battery and false imprisonment. Merriman's former girlfriend, reality TV star Tila Tequila, claimed in an arrest complaint that he choked and restrained her when she tried to leave his home. The charges were dismissed less than a week later on September 11, 2009.
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, Shawne Merriman's estimated net worth is around $20 million. His earnings stem from his successful NFL career, various endorsement deals, and business ventures. While specific salary figures from his playing days are not disclosed, it's known that Merriman had lucrative contracts during his peak years in the NFL, supplemented by income from media appearances and business endeavors.
He signed a two-year contract extension worth $10.5 million with the Bills on January 1, 2011. The deal contained $5 million guaranteed, including $3 million of his 2012 salary.
Career, Business and Investments
Shawne Merriman's career in the NFL was marked by numerous accolades, including three Pro Bowl selections and the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2005. After retiring from professional football, Merriman transitioned into business, investing in fitness-related companies and launching his own line of supplements. He remains active in the entertainment industry, often participating in sports commentary and events that highlight his passion for football and sports culture.
Merriman started off his 2005 rookie year on the inactive list and completed a 10-day hold out from training camp. He did not break the starting lineup until week 7, but recorded 6 sacks in his first 4 starts.
He was voted into the Pro Bowl as an OLB after playing the position for the San Diego Chargers in their 3–4 defensive scheme which is the same position he played at the University of Maryland. Merriman's best game of the year came in week 15 when the Chargers handed the Indianapolis Colts their first loss of the season.
Merriman recorded 2 sacks and 2 tackles for a loss, one of which stopped Peyton Manning for a 6-yard loss on 4th and goal. It was during this game that Shawne Merriman garnered much national media coverage and in the following week made the Pro Bowl.
Social Network
Shawne Merriman is active on various social media platforms, where he engages with fans and shares insights into his life post-football. You can follow him on:
Merriman started three years on both the varsity football and basketball teams. On the hardwood, Merriman was named one of the top five basketball defenders in the D.C. area by The Washington Post.
For his football performance during his senior year, he was selected to the first team all-state and named Maryland Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press. He also played some tight end in high school.
Education
Shawne Merriman attended the University of Maryland, where he played college football and continued to hone his skills as a linebacker. His collegiate experience laid the groundwork for his successful career in the NFL and showcased his dedication and talent on the field.
In conclusion, Shawne Merriman's life in 2025 reflects a blend of athletic achievement, business ventures, and personal growth. His journey continues to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike, illustrating the importance of perseverance and adaptability in one's career.
Shawne DeAndre Merriman (born May 25, 1984), nicknamed "Lights Out", is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Maryland Terrapins and was selected 12th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 2005 NFL draft.
He earned NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in his first season and recorded quarterback sacks in his first three seasons, also making three Pro Bowls as well as two All-Pro selections. He was hampered by injuries his next three seasons, and the Chargers waived Merriman midseason in 2010.
He was picked up through waivers by the Buffalo Bills that season, but he only played minimally with the Bills due to continued injuries. He was released by the Bills before the 2012 season however, they re-signed him midseason. He retired at the end of the 2012 season.
