Ex-LB Shawne Merriman signs pro deal as bare-knuckle boxer

Former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman is turning to combat sports after retiring from football in 2013.

The San Diego Chargers' 12th overall pick in 2005 signed with the World Bare Knuckle Fighting Federation, the promotion confirmed Wednesday.

Merriman will compete in a boxing match in Casper, Wyo. this fall against a yet-to-be-named opponent, according to Brett Okamoto of ESPN.

"Right now, this is the best opportunity for what I want to do," the 34-year-old Merriman said in a statement released to ESPN. "I've been kicking tires for years, this is a good place for me to start. I'm looking forward to having some fun out there. I get to train for the next six-to-eight weeks and go show everyone what I can do."

Merriman was named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons and was named an All-Pro as a sophomore after leading the league with 17 sacks. He played a total of six campaigns with the Chargers before joining the Buffalo Bills in 2011 where he'd play just 15 games over two years.

He finished his career with 45.5 sacks, 18 forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, and one interception.