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Overview
Merritt's bulk and strength makes him one of the better blocking specialist tight ends of the draft. While he offers little in terms of the passing game, Merritt flashes the ability to control his opponent and drive him off the line of scrimmage. A two-year starter, Merritt finished his collegiate career with only 17 receptions.
Analysis
Positives: Classic build for the position ... Wide shouldered, long-armed athlete ... Flashes physicality at the point of attack ... Good hand placement and strong enough to be able to turn and sustain his blocks ... Can get to the second level and block on the move ... Marginal quickness off the snap and in gaining separation from defenders.
Negatives: Inconsistent ... Marginal hands ... Allows too many passes into his pads, resulting in some ugly drops ... Lacks speed and elusiveness with the ball in his hands ... Marginal overall athlete who has struggled to stand out at this level.
Career Notes
Earned honorable mention All-Conference USA honors in 2007.
High School
Merritt graduated from West Palm Beach's Suncoast High School in 2003 ... Played for coach Jimmy Bell ... Played tight end and defensive end for Suncoast, which won its first district title in 18 years ... Recorded 12 sacks from his defensive end position and also hauled in 16 passes for 142 yards at tight end ... Finished the year with 10 pancake blocks ... Borderwars.com rated him No. 49 among defensive end prospects ... Also a member of Bill Buchalter's "Dandy Dozen " ... Garnered all-county honors.
Personal
Liberal studies major ... Son of Henry and Katie Sherrod.
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