As a College Recruit
Accurate, functionally mobile passer with a strong feel for the game. Measured at around 6-foot-3, 195 pounds prior to his senior season. Hand size has been measured between 9 and 9.25 inches. Among the more accurate and efficient top quarterbacks in the 2024 cycle.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. Throws with timing and touch. Sees the field well. Can pick up chunks of yards with his legs on designed runs and scrambles. Completed 67% of his passes for 1,987 yards and 32 touchdowns against 2 interceptions as a junior. Does not pass as much as many of his blue-chip peers but is very efficient, with a stellar 13.7 yards per attempt. Does not appear to be as naturally gifted as a pure passer as some other top quarterback prospects relative to arm strength and throwing mechanics. Also plays basketball for his high school.
Junior Season Highlights
6/17/22
Jake Merklinger camps at LSU
2024 top 100 signal caller Jake Merklinger threw on Friday morning at LSU's elite skills camp and got better as the day went on. The 6-foot-3, 190-pounder was at his best in live situations and connected on some nice throws in 1-on-1’s and 7-on-7 work. Merklinger looked to process the increased play speed as well or better than most of his peers over the two days.
6/17/22
Jake Merklinger shines at LSU elite camp
The Peach State passer was among the top standouts behind center during Friday’s session. Merklinger has a pretty deep ball and can drop it with touch and in stride on intermediate routes. He can also put some spin on his throws and continued to get better throughout the camp session. He has one of the highest floors in this 2024 class.