Merkins played his first two seasons in the NFL for the Houston Oilers.[4] He was primarily a punt return specialist for the Oilers.[1] He was claimed off the waiver wire by the Saints in late 1980, and played from 1981-1985[5][1] During his tenure with the Saints, he served as the third-string quarterback, holder for field goals and a "primary" special teams player; with occasional time as a wide receiver, punter or safety. He also handled some kickoff and punt returns. His penchant for being the emergency backup for all of the aforementioned positions earned him the reputation of a "jack of all trades". In 1981, he reached number three receiver status, starting eleven games, with 29 receptions, 458 yards and one touchdown.[6][4]
Merkens unusual versatility made him an extremely popular player for the Saints, and he has been called a Saints legend.[4]
After not playing in 1986,[4] Merkens was a replacement player during the NFL players strike of 1987 for the Philadelphia Eagles, playing quarterback.[7] Merkens was sacked 10 times by the Chicago Bears replacement team in his first game, a 35–3 loss.[8]
Later life
In 2007, Merkens was general manager of a CarMax dealership in the Houston.[9]
Merkens was inducted into the Sam Houston Hall of Honor in 1988.[10]
