Jake Merklinger, a four-star quarterback recruit from the class of 2024, revealed his chosen school.
On Thursday, Merklinger announced his commitment to Tennessee. He declared himself “100% committed” in a Twitter post wearing orange and white Volunteers colors.
100% COMMITTED #GBO @Hayesfawcett3 pic.twitter.com/EJtuRHwxL7
— Jake Merklinger (@JakeMerklinger) March 30, 2023
Merklinger has accounted for 95 touchdowns (75 passing, 20 rushing) during three seasons at Calvary Day High School in Savannah, Georgia. The 6-foot-2 quarterback tossed 32 touchdowns to just two interceptions as a junior.
He made unofficial visits to North Carolina, Michigan State, and Georgia before going to Tennessee’s campus and attending a spring practice last Saturday.
Per the 247Sports composite rankings, Merklinger is the No. 6 quarterback in the class of 2024 and No. 55 overall recruit. He’s the highest-rated of Tenneesee’s six commits.
Before Merklinger’s enrollment, Tennessee will welcome five-star quarterback recruit Nico Iamaleava this year. Joe Milton could have the leg up on replacing Hendon Hooker as the Vols’ starter in his sixth collegiate season.