Mervyn Fernandez facts for kids

Mervyn L. Fernandez (born December 29, 1959) is a former American football player. He was a talented wide receiver known for his amazing moves. People often called him "Swervin' Mervyn" because of how he played.

Mervyn played for the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League (CFL). He also played for the Los Angeles Raiders in the National Football League (NFL). He was a two-time CFL All-Star in 1984 and 1985. He is also a special member of the BC Lions Wall of Fame.

In 2003, Mervyn was chosen for the BC Lions All-Time Dream Team. This was part of the club's 50-year celebration. In 2006, he was voted one of the Top 50 players in the CFL's modern history.

Mervyn Fernandez: A Football Star

Early Life and School Football

Mervyn Fernandez grew up in San Jose, California. He was a standout wide receiver at Andrew Hill High School. It was there that his team's quarterback gave him his famous nickname, "Swervin' Mervyn."

After high school, Mervyn played college football. He first played at DeAnza Junior College. Then, he finished his college career at San José State University.

While at San José State, football scouts from the Los Angeles Raiders noticed him. They saw his speed and skill. The Raiders later picked him in the 10th round of the 1983 NFL draft.

Playing in Canada: The CFL Career

Mervyn Fernandez spent most of his professional career in the CFL. He played six seasons with the BC Lions (1982–1986, and again in 1994).

He joined the Lions in 1982 and made an immediate impact. In his first season, he gained over 1,000 receiving yards. He also helped his team achieve a winning record. Mervyn won the CFL Western Division Most Outstanding Rookie award. He was also a finalist for the CFL's overall Most Outstanding Rookie award.

After two more seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards, Mervyn became a key player. He helped the BC Lions win the Grey Cup championship in 1985. That year, he had 95 catches and 1,727 yards. He also scored 15 touchdowns.

Even though he was injured and did not play in the Grey Cup game, he was still honored. Mervyn became the first Lion to win the CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award. He was a two-time CFL All-Star in 1984 and 1985.

After the 1986 season, the Raiders convinced him to join the NFL. He returned to the BC Lions for one more season in 1994.

Playing in the NFL: The Raiders Years

Mervyn Fernandez spent his entire six-year NFL career (1987–1992) with the Los Angeles Raiders. He played in 86 games during this time. He caught 209 passes for 3,764 yards and scored 19 touchdowns.

While he never made the Pro Bowl, he set some records for the Raiders. His 209 career catches rank him among the top 10 receivers in Raiders' history. His 3,764 receiving yards rank him eighth all-time.

Mervyn's average of 18.01 yards per catch is the best for any receiver in Raiders' history. In 1988, he led all NFL receivers in average yards per catch (26.0).

His best year was arguably 1989. He made 57 catches for 1,069 yards and 9 touchdowns. He led all Raiders' receivers in most categories that year. He became only the sixth Raider to gain over 1,000 receiving yards in a single season.

Life After Football

After his football career, Mervyn Fernandez continued to live an active life. He currently lives in Morgan Hill, California. He works as a sales representative.

Mervyn is also a big fan of sport fishing. His son, Joe Fernandez, also played football as a wide receiver at Fresno State University. Mervyn was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2019.