In one of the wildest recruiting moves in recent history, Jacory Closkey Merritt is returning to Arizona football to play for the Cats in 2024.
Sometimes it's the journey that's more important than the destination, and that's certainly true for former New Mexico running back Jacory Closkey Merritt.
After a fairly busy spring in which he committed to Arizona football, transferred to Ole Miss and then decided to rejoin the Wildcats, Jacoli will rejoin head coach Brent Brennan and former head coach Danny Gonzalez in Tucson.
There have been legitimate questions over the past few weeks about his eligibility and whether he'll be able to play in 2024. Then, as Ole Miss began to fill out its roster and add another running back (and possibly release Jacory), it seemed as if the school had given up hope of him playing.
Thanks to Arizona State's diligence, some administrative issues were identified from his early playing career at Alabama State that resulted in Jacory receiving another year of eligibility, and luckily for us, he will be spending his final collegiate season in Tucson.
Side note: If you want more details on the administrative issues and what happened in Alabama, listen to Michael Luke (PHNX Wildcats) and Jason Scheer (Wildcat Authority). Skip to the 5 minute mark to listen.
Arizona re-acquired the fourth-highest rated running back (by PFF) for 2023 just days after acquiring former Ole Miss running back Kedrick Leascano, and he'll likely shoulder the responsibilities of a starter in 2024.
Overall, this is a great addition for the Wildcats. Jacoli is coming off an outstanding season in which he rushed for 1,190 yards (6.3 average) on just 189 carries and scored 17 touchdowns, not to mention his skill and experience. He will solidify this team and make the Wildcats a dangerous offense next season.
We are excited about his addition and can't wait to see what the Wildcats do in 2024!
Arizona Football has landed a contract from OL transfer Shanko Matautia. Arizona Football has landed a contract from OL transfer Shanko Matautia. Dark. Next
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