SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 19: Cam McDaniel #33 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish runs for a first down against the University of Southern California Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 19, 2013 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated USC 14-10. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Finding a more physically dominant offensive lineman in the 2026 recruiting class than Mechanicsburg (Pa.) Cumberland Valley’s Tyler Merrill is no easy task. The Pennsylvania native has long been a top target for Notre Dame, quickly emerging as a priority for the program.
Merrill is familiar with South Bend, having visited campus several times before. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound powerhouse will return once again on January 25th for Junior Day, joining a group of elite 2026 prospects. Notre Dame’s staff has made it clear that Merrill is high on their list of priorities.
The Fighting Irish have already secured commitments from Ben Nichols and Sullivan Garvin in the 2026 class, both of whom are projected to play inside at the college level. Now, the team is focused on landing offensive tackles, and Merrill has the versatility to excel either outside or as a dominant guard.
From a rankings perspective, Merrill is highly regarded. He currently holds the No. 87 spot overall and ranks as the No. 7 interior offensive lineman in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite. Similarly, On3 Industry ranks him No. 81 overall.
Notre Dame faces stiff competition for Merrill, who boasts an impressive list of offers. Programs like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan, Clemson, Penn State, Texas A&M, Auburn, and several others are all vying for his commitment.
