Justin Herbert’s engagement to Madison Beer has prompted an unusual challenge from former Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman. Enjoy the engagement ring, then go win two more.
Merriman said he is happy for the Los Angeles Chargers quarterback and his fiancée and dismissed the idea that their increasingly public relationship could distract Herbert during training camp.
Instead, the former Pro Bowler told TMZ Sports that Herbert’s next objective should be adding Super Bowl rings, arguing that the Chargers have a legitimate opportunity to contend if their key players remain healthy.
His comments come shortly after the normally private Herbert gave an unusually personal interview about Beer, saying she has changed his life and given him the kind of relationship he had always hoped to find.
Merriman Wants Herbert to Chase Two More Rings
During a TMZ Sports interview, Merriman was asked whether the attention surrounding Herbert and Beer could become a distraction for the quarterback. He was not concerned. Merriman instead joked that after securing one kind of ring with his engagement, Herbert “better get two rings” on the football field.
The former Chargers linebacker also said he was happy for Herbert and Beer, whose engagement has become one of the more visible storylines surrounding the team during training camp. As for Los Angeles’ championship chances, Merriman said the team has a real opportunity if it can keep its roster healthy.
Herbert Says Beer Has Changed His Life
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Herbert discussed the engagement during an interview with former NFL player Isaac Rochell and co-host Jacob Hester on SiriusXM NFL Radio at Chargers training camp in El Segundo, California. Asked what it was like having Beer supporting him at camp, Herbert described finding what Rochell called his “forever teammate.”
“It’s hard to explain. It’s been so incredible,” Herbert said, according to PEOPLE. “She’s changed my life, and it’s something I never thought was possible,” he continued. “It’s so awesome to find your person and to be able to spend your life with them. I’m excited and just can’t wait. She’s the best.”
Rochell even joked that it might have been the “longest media answer” the quarterback had ever given. Herbert responded that the Beer question was “the first good question” he had been asked.
Beer and Herbert Announced Their Engagement July 28
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Beer and Herbert announced their engagement in a joint Instagram post on July 28th. The couple’s relationship first became public in 2025 and grew increasingly visible over the following year. Beer attended Chargers games, while Herbert supported her music career and appeared in the video for her song “lovergirl.”
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh also gave Herbert permission to miss part of the team’s voluntary offseason program this spring while he traveled to Europe to support Beer during her tour.
“I was happy he went to support Madison on her music tour, Madison supports him at the football games,” Harbaugh told the Chargers’ official website in May.