Shawne DeAndre Merriman, born on the 25th May 1984, is a former American Football player, a linebacker in the National Football League(NFL), playing for the San Diego Chargers and Buffalo Bills, who became popular with his nickname “Lights Out” for knocking down opposing players.
So how much is Merriman’s net worth? As of mid-2016, it is estimated by authoritative sources to be over $13 million, acquired from his years of playing professional football.
Shawne Merriman Net Worth $13 million
Born in Upper Marlboro, Maryland USA, Merriman started his love for sports during his years in Frederick Douglass High School in his hometown. Although he also played basketball, Merriman excelled at football, and during his senior year, he was selected to the first team all-state and was awarded by the Associated Press as Maryland Defensive Player of the Year.
With his laurels in high school, Merriman was pursued by many colleges but chose to stay in Maryland. He attended University of Maryland and played for their team, the Maryland Terrapins while getting his degree in criminal justice. He once again performed well and received recognitions like being named to the NACC All-Conference team and winning the Iron Term award for the “strongest pound for pound player”.
With his promising talent and future, Merriman decided to forego his last year in college and enter the Draft for the NFL in 2005, being selected 12th by the San Diego Chargers, signing a 5-year contract with the team worth $11.5 million. The start of his professional career immediately helped increase his net worth.
During his years playing pro football, Merriman has received awards and positive comments for his performances. He was awarded “Defensive Rookie of the Year” by the Associated Press and became part of the All-Pro team from 2005 to 2007.
In 2006, Merriman faced controversy when he tested positive for steroids, which Merriman said that he had taken by accident during his off-season break. He tried other tests and tested negative among others, but unfortunately he was still suspended for four games. After the suspension, Merriman went back into the game and continued to perform well. Unfortunately, new problems arose as he encountered injuries more often. In 2010, he was released from the San Diego Chargers due to his injuries.
Later that year, Merriman transferred to the Buffalo Bills, and his move helped his net worth. Unfortunately, more injuries hindered his performance, and he eventually decided to retire in 2013.
Aside from playing in the NFL, Merriman also did a little bit of acting in the parody production of the movie “Field of Dreams” by Funny or Die. Merriman appeared in “Field of Dreams 2: Lockout”, “Field of Dreams 2: NFL Lockout with Taylor Lautner: Behind the Scenes” and “Field of Dreams 2: NFL Lockout with Taylor Lautner: Deleted Scenes.” These productions also added in his wealth.
In terms of his personal life, Merriman dated reality star Tila Tequila, but the relationship didn’t last; he is reputedly still single.
