60 Seconds: Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman
You get 60 Minutes on the weekend, but neither you nor we have that time today. So let's say we settle for 60 seconds with San Diego linebacker Shawne Merriman, last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year. The man's gregarious. He's candid. And he's a damn good football player.
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| Shawne Merriman reminds some of the linebacker he most admires -- Lawrence Taylor. (Getty Images) |
Q: What's with the extra E in your first name?
Merriman: I just like to be different, and my Mom liked to be different.
Q: If you couldn't vote for yourself, who would you have pushed as last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year?
Merriman: Lofa Tatupu.
Q: Why?
Merriman: Because of his all-around play. He was always around the ball, and I like that.
Q: You start your own football team. Which quarterback do you choose?
Merriman: Tom Brady. Because he won all those Super Bowls. He's proven he can lead. I really want to say Philip Rivers, but until he takes us to a Super Bowl, I'll stay with Brady.
Q: You were known as "Lights Out" coming into this league. Tell me: A help or a hindrance for a rookie?
Merriman: Well, it's something you have to get over because you have to go out and prove it. I'd say it's a plus coming in, but you have to prove it.
Q: If I hire Terrell Owens for my team, would you support the move?
Merriman: Definitely. He's a tremendous player.
Q: Who's the toughest guy for you to tackle?
Merriman: L.T. (LaDainian Tomlinson). Because I can't hit him.
Q: Of all the linebackers you've seen, past or present, who's the best pass rusher?
Merriman: L.T. (Lawrence Taylor). He was relentless and determined to get to the football.
Q: What's the best thing about playing in San Diego?
Merriman: The atmosphere and the weather.
Q: What's the worst?
Merriman: I'm far from home.
