After a successful season at Solon with a one-year starter in future Iowa defensive back Eli Kampman, Luke Merrick Luke Merrick 6'4" | 215 lbs | ATH/LB Solon | 2028 State IA enters the picture with hopes of taking over under center for the next two seasons.

As a sophomore last fall, Merrick completed 7-of-14 passes (50%) for 91 yards and two touchdowns. The two throws he has on film from last season show the ability to put some arc on the ball, as well as throw on the run.

Like Lalk, Merrick is in an advantageous position in that he’s in line to inherit the starting position with a bevy of weapons through the air at his disposal with all five of the Spartans top receiver set to return, including Maddox Kelley Maddox Kelley 5'10" | 175 lbs | ATH Solon | 2027 State IA , Kaden Hoeper Kaden Hoeper 6'2" | 180 lbs | WR Solon | 2027 State IA and  Cody Milliman Cody Milliman 6'2" | 200 lbs | ATH State IA , who each finished with 35 or more receptions last fall. Merrick will be in good hands with the trio of receivers, plus Lucas Stanton leading the program.