Former Tennessee quarterback announces transfer destination
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Tennessee redshirt freshman quarterback Jake Merklinger entered the NCAA transfer portal following the 2025 football season.
On Thursday, the former Vol committed to UConn. 2026 will mark the first season for the Huskies under head coach Jason Candle. He was hired on Dec. 6, 2025.
“UConn has all the ingredients for success — outstanding facilities, passionate fans, and a commitment to excellence,” Candle said. “I look forward to building on the incredible momentum here and developing a program that builds young men of character and makes our fans and alumni proud. I can’t wait to get to work with our student-athletes and staff.”
The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Merklinger appeared in six games for the Vols from 2024-25. He completed 19-of-33 passing attempts for 221 yards and two touchdowns, while recording 38 rushing yards on 11 attempts.
Merklinger served as the Vols’ third-string quarterback in 2024 and Tennessee’s backup during the 2025 campaign.
He committed to the Vols over Georgia, Michigan State and North Carolina. Merklinger is from Calvary Day School in Savannah, Georgia.
The NCAA transfer portal will close Friday after opening on Jan. 2.
Let’s Go! @UConnFootballpic.twitter.com/5nQ4aziEed
— Jake Merklinger (@JakeMerklinger) January 15, 2026
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This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Vols’ quarterback transfer to play for first-year head coach
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