4-star QB Jake Merklinger visits North Carolina

Savannah (Ga.) Calvary Day School four-star quarterback Jake Merklinger spent Saturday on a visit to North Carolina. He attended the Tar Heels’ basketball game against Duke alongside Burlington (N.C.) Hugh M. Cummings four-star wide receiver Jonathan Paylor.

Both players took a photo during the contest with North Carolina head coach Mack Brown. Merklinger’s trip to Chapel Hill marked his second of 2023.

🐏🐏 @jonathan_paylor @CoachMackBrown pic.twitter.com/izfI5Kektd

— Jake Merklinger (@JakeMerklinger) March 5, 2023

Merklinger is the No. 70 overall prospect and No. 7 quarterback in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the No. 13 player in Georgia.

On3 rates Merklinger higher than other recruiting services, according to the Industry Comparison. Per the 2024 On300, he is the No. 66 overall prospect, No. 6 quarterback and No. 12 player in Georgia.

“I went up there for the first time in January and connected with coach (Chip) Lindsey,” Merklinger told On3’s Sam Spiegelman on March 1 about North Carolina. “I can’t wait to get back.”

The 6-foot-3, 195-pound signal-caller kicked off a busy month with his trip to the Tar Heels. He will also visit Georgia, Michigan State and Tennessee in March.

“They’re really crucial I would say,” Merklinger told On3’s Chad Simmons on Feb. 26 about his visits. “I told everyone here that I feel like the most realistic thing is me maybe making a decision after I take these visits. In a way, they’re like officials, but I could also see myself going on these unofficials and really loving all of them.

“I may not be sure yet and I’d have to take my officials later. You never know.”

“I want to be committed as early as possible but I also don’t want to rush it,” he added. “I’ve been praying a lot for God’s guidance and he’s got it all mapped out for me so I trust him. I feel like I’ll know when I’m ready.”

Jake Merklinger On3 Scouting Summary

The following is the On3 Scouting Summary for Jake Merklinger:

“Accurate, mobile passer with a strong feel for the game early on in his high school career. Among the more accurate top quarterbacks in the 2024 cycle, completing over 70 percent of his passes as a sophomore. Comfortable navigating the pocket. Sees the field well, finding open receivers while under pressure. Shows the ability to quickly react and escape from pass rushers.

“Functional mobility both in and out of the pocket is among the best among top 2024 quarterbacks at this juncture. Can pick up chunks of yards with his legs on designed runs and scrambles. Has shown a good arm to this point, but can continue improving his velocity as he gets stronger, in addition to tightening his release. A multi-sport athlete who also plays basketball and lacrosse.”