The high-upside quarterback continues to show poise in the pocket and make sharp throws. At the mid-season mark, Merrell is completing 70 percent of his passes for 724 yards and seven touchdowns. He is also a strong runner, logging 232 rushing yards and two scores.

Merrell throws a nice deep ball with precision and puts just enough air for his receivers to catch the football. The junior QB has above-average escapability (verified 4.4 40-yard dash) and is hard to corral, even when seemingly sacked.

He throws accurate footballs on the run and in the pocket and is the ideal dual-threat prospect for the next level.

Notable Offers: Appalachian State, FIU, Rhode Island, Pitt, UCF

The transfer from Immaculata La Salle last season and St. Thomas Aquinas this spring has much to prove as he tries to win big games for Archbishop McCarthy, a district and state title contender in 2026.

The strong-armed quarterback has above-average arm talent and the potential to reach five-star status with his natural athletic ability and size. The long-strider is a threat to make plays with his legs with every snap and can will his way to move the chains, making plays on the run. What he lacks is significant weekly game experience against high-level talent.

Merrell will have many opportunities to prove his talent in games against 2A state runner-up, The Bolles School, and all-time state title leader, St. Thomas Aquinas.