• Phillip Merling, who was born in South Carolina, played football for the Clemson Tigers from the 2005 until the 2007 season. In his junior year he left college to be qualified for the 2008 NFL Draft, which he is rated as a top five prospect. Merling is said to be one of the most gifted and complete players on the draft board, and one of the most underrrated players.

• High School days

  Merling attended Calhoun County High School in South Carolina for three years, where he played football and basketball. For his senior year, he transferred to Cordova High School in Memphis, Tennessee, where he played under coach Chris Rumpf. In 2004, Merling transferred to the Fork Union Military Academy, where he was ranked as the number 25 prep player in the nation.

• College decisions

  Merling was offered scholarships from Arkansas, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Memphis. He enrolled at Clemson University in 2004, where he started 26 of the 38 games that he played in. He earned the honor of player of the week three times in 2007. Merling finished his college career in 2007, and was ranked fifth in the league, helping the Clemson Tigers rank ninth in total defense.

• 2008 NFL Draft workouts

  Merling has worked out for about two dozen NFL teams since entering the draft. He is expected to be among the top defensive linemen taken on the first day of the draft on Saturday, April 26th.

• 1. Full name: Phillip Blaine Merling
  2. Born: April 19, 1985
  3. Birthplace: St.Mahews, South Carolina
  4. Height: 6' 5"
  5. Weight: 280 lbs
  6. Position: Defensive end
  7. College: Clemson University
  8. College Debut: 2005
  9. Number worn in college: 94

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