Cumberland Valley’s Star Freshman Tackle: Tyler Merrill

Tyler Merrill is a 2026 recruit who plays Offensive Tackle at Cumberland Valley High School. Merrill is ranked among one of the top recruits in the class of 2026 and is ranked among one of the top Offensive Tackles in the class as well. In addition, Merrill is listed among one of the top recruits in the state of Pennsylvania and is listed among one of the top Offensive Tackles in the state of Pennsylvania. He holds offers from schools such as Ohio State, Michigan and Penn State.

Who are some role models in your life?

I look up to my dad a lot becuase he has taught me a lot about life, and though he might not be the best football coach, he still gives his best every day and only wants the best for me.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

Kodak Black, Key Glock, Drake and Meek Mill

What are the strengths of your game?

Some strengths of my game are my athleticism and speed I possess for my size.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

My favorite memory isn’t a specific moment, it’s whenever one of my teammates score off a great block I provide.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

l’ve played with many great players already, but some have to be Elias Cody Coke, and Messiah Mickens. Those guys have already achieved a ton of success and l’ve played against them in little league football, and they were both just dominant forces. I have a ton of respect for those guys, and I had the opportunity to play with Messiah at an all star game, and you could tell the guy was different.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

Work on your craft and techniques, but most importantly be patient. A lot of kids rush into recruiting and send film to coaches in 5th and 6th grade. It takes time to become a good football player, and lots of dedication. l’ve had a point where I was impatient because I noticed the people around me achieve more success than I had. But I trusted Gods plan, worked hard, and still continue to do that becuase I know everyone has a plan, everyone has a path, and it’s different for everyone.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be to Iceland. 

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

I was around 8 when I started, but it wasn’t my main sport, as I played baseball and basketball too. Not until around 6th-7th grade did I start to realize how much I really loved the sport.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

If I could meet one sports hero it would be Kobe Bryant. I would ask him questions about his mentality.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

My favorite sports moment as a fan, was watching the Army Navy game with my dad.