NEW YORK, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Linebacker Shawne Merriman of San Diego Wednesday was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week.
The rookie out of Maryland had two sacks and three other tackles in the Chargers' 26-17 win at Indianapolis. It was the Colts' first loss of the season after a 13-0 start.
Merriman, who dropped Peyton Manning for a loss during a key Colts' drive in the second quarter, leads NFL rookies in sacks with nine. Joining him were Denver wide receiver Rod Smith (offense) and Cleveland place-kicker Phil Dawson.
Smith, an 11-year veteran, made 11 receptions for 137 yards and a touchdown in the Broncos' 28-17 victory over Buffalo. It was his franchise-record 31st 100-yard receiving game, including the play-offs.
Dawson, who accounted for all of the Browns' points, booted three field goals in a 9-7 win over Oakland.
