He made up for it with a succession of big plays for the Chargers, especially after becoming a starter on Oct. Merriman caused some concern when he hurt his knee in the final exhibition game and missed the season opener. Despite fears of protracted negotiations, he missed only a week of training camp before signing a deal potentially worth $15.73 million, with $9 million guaranteed. As anyone with the nickname 'Lights Out' would expect.Īfter being picked 12th in the draft out of Maryland, Merriman had a shaky start with the Chargers when his agent held him out of offseason workouts until he signed a contract. While all of them were standouts, Merriman showed the most explosiveness and made more spotlight-grabbing plays. Behind Merriman and Tatupu were Odell Thurman of Cincinnati with four votes and DaMarcus Ware of Dallas with one. He easily beat Seattle linebacker Lofa Tatupu, who got 16½.Īll the players receiving votes played linebacker in some form this season.

The San Diego linebacker, known as 'Lights Out' for his hard hits and aggressive demeanor, received 28½ votes Wednesday from a nationwide panel of sports writers and broadcasters who cover the league. He is the first Maryland player ever to earn the honor.

NEW YORK (AP) - Shawne Merriman's relentless style of play made an immediate mark in the NFL, earning him The Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

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