Four-Star QB Jake Merklinger sets commitment date

Four-star quarterback Jake Merklinger of Savannah (GA) Calvary Day School has set his commitment date.

The 6-foot-3, 200 pounder will announce his college decision on Thursday, March 30th. He will choose between Georgia, Michigan State, Tennessee, and others.

Merklinger reflecting on his recruiting process

“The whole recruiting process has been such a blessing,” Merklinger said. “I have been so fortunate to have the support I do from all of my family and friends. Just being able to travel and visit some of the top schools in the nation is an experience of a lifetime. This decision is not an easy one and requires a lot of prayer and thought.”

Jake Merklinger Scouting Summary

“Accurate, mobile passer with a strong feel for the game early on in his high school career,” On3’s Director of Scouting Charles Power wrote. “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.”

Merklinger ranks as the No. 66 player in the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also tabs in as the No. 7 quarterback and the No. 9 player in the state of Georgia.

Personal Life (via On3 Database)

“Jake Merklinger was already known as one of the top high school quarterbacks in Georgia heading into his junior year of high school. But Merklinger elevated his game in 2022 to become one of the country’s elite quarterback prospects. Merklinger was named the 2022 Offensive Player of the Year by the Savannah Quarterback Club. He threw for 1,987 yards with 32 touchdowns and just two interceptions and ran for 283 yards and four more scores to earn Region 3-3A Player of the Year honors. “He shows more and more maturity each week, stepping up in the pocket and holding himself in the pocket and rescanning the field,” Calvary Day School coach Mark Stroud said.

“Once that first thing breaks down, he does a really good job of figuring out what’s next. He’s improved every year and proven himself – and I think he’s going to get better and better. He has all the physical skills, he’s a tremendous competitor and leader – he’s got all the intangibles the best programs are looking for.” Away from football, Merklinger also enjoys playing basketball and lacrosse. His favorite food is crab. His parents are Kim and Jeremy Merklinger. Merklinger’s older brother, Ryan, played football at Valparaiso.”