Linebacker/defensive end Shawne Merriman, the Chargers' first choice and the twelfth player chosen overall in the 2005 NFL Draft, agreed to terms on a five-year contract.

"We're excited to get Shawne here and integrated into our defense as quickly as possible," said General Manager A.J. Smith. "The negotiations with Kevin Poston were cordial, professional and it was a pleasure doing business with him."

Merriman, 6-4, 272, entered the NFL Draft after a dominating three-year career at the University of Maryland.