Kansas Jayhawks’ Pursuit of High-Caliber Recruits Under Coach Lance Leipold: Spotlight on Dawson Merritt
Ever since Lance Leipold assumed the position of head coach for the Kansas Jayhawks, the program has shown no hesitation in pursuing high-caliber recruits, particularly those hailing from their own region.
One notable prospect is Dawson Merritt, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound linebacker currently touted as a four-star recruit for the class of 2025. Nationally, he holds the 129th spot and ranks as the 17th best linebacker, additionally securing the 5th position among Kansas prospects.
Merritt, whose father Dave Merritt serves as the defensive backs coach for the Kansas City Chiefs, attends Blue Valley High School in Stillwell, Kansas. Despite receiving a scholarship offer from Kansas back in November 2023, Merritt recently shared his thoughts with Blue Wings Rising, reflecting on his offer experience.
“It was an exciting moment to receive an offer from KU. It’s reassuring to know that my hometown team recognizes my potential as a player,” Merritt expressed to Blue Wings Rising.
Delving into his interaction further, Merritt disclosed, “I’ve had conversations with several coaches from the staff, but it was Coach Leipold who extended the offer to me. It was a memorable experience as he invited both my parents and me to his office on game day. They’ve conveyed to me the significance of my role in their defensive setup.”
Merritt also highlighted the rapid transformation of the Kansas program, noting, “Kansas stands out with their swift rebuild, catapulting them into the top 25 rankings nationally within a short span of time. I believe I can contribute significantly to the program, potentially filling various positions if required, and making an early impact.”
He confirmed to Blue Wings Rising his intention to visit the campus in the near future, emphasizing that the Jayhawks currently stand as one of his top choices.
After a great gameday visit, I am blessed to receive an offer from Kansas! 🔵🔴 Thank you Jesus🙏🏾. @CoachLeipold @CoachSimps @CoachBorland @BillyBonneau @CoachSvarczkopf @ScottAligo @BV_CoachTerrell @Meechie_47 @_dlmerritt @DavidMerrittSr1 pic.twitter.com/DOLHV5R0mw
— Dawson Merritt (@dawsonxmerritt) November 11, 2023
