How to Play Linebacker Like Shawne Merriman

To play linebacker successfully in the National Football League a player must possess size, speed and football acumen, attributes that belong to Shawne Merriman. He is as big as a lineman and as fast as a defensive back. Merriman also studies the game like a coach.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Nurture the versatility to play in any defensive scheme. Most linebackers are strictly three-four or four-three scheme linebackers. Either they are too slow or too big to play in a four-three alignment or they are too small and not strong enough to play comfortably in a three-four defensive scheme. Shawne Merriman can play in any scheme or alignment.
2. Play the linebacker position with enthusiasm. You often will see Shawne Merriman celebrating a great play with his signature "lights out" dance.
3. Tackle the intended target with ferocity and aggression. Shawn Merriman tackles the opposing player with such force it can knock them unconscious and even end a career. Priest Holmes was a star running back until Merriman made one of his signature tackles. Holmes went out for the rest of the season, and the hit effectively ended his career. However, Merriman never intentionally trys to hurt another player with a dirty play.
4. Defend the run and sack the quarterback. Shawne Merriman has been a league leader in quarterback sacks, and he sheds blocks and tackles running backs as well as any player in football.
5. Work hard in practice and the weight room as well as during the game. Merriman is renowned for his work ethic. Some players only go full speed during games, but Merriman only knows how to go full out at all times. When you are in gym or on the practice field, don't slack off. Go full speed in every drill or lift.