Merrill, Young Ready for the Next Level

Two more Citrus College football players have committed to continue their collegiate playing careers. Drew Merrill is set to join the roster at the University of Incarnate Word and Royal Young is headed to New Mexico-Highlands.

Merrill, a sophomore defensive back, finished the year with 35 total tackles, including 18 solo tackles and two tackles for loss. He also grabbed three interceptions totaling 85 yards, and had five breakups and one block.

"My time at Citrus has meant a lot to me because it gave me an opportunity to showcase my abilities and I was treated like family," said Merrill. "I could not have asked for a better two years here; it was a great environment.

"I want to thank Coach Hayashi, Coach Ant, Coach Puck, Coach Jamaal, and the rest of the coaching staff for all they have done and for making sure we were always ready to play," added Merrill. "Thank you to the athletic trainers and the rest of the support staff for everything they do as well. Citrus will always be home and is the best family I could ask for! I am feeling great about moving to Texas and going to Incarnate Word. They are ready to get back to the playoffs and make a run at a national championship and I want to help them get there. It is a new challenge I am excited for, and I appreciate them for giving me this opportunity!"

Young, who made the transition from offensive line to tight end in the middle of this season, played in four games for the Owls. Over his two years at Citrus, Young helped the Owls to two bowl titles and an undefeated season in 2022.

"My time at Citrus meant a lot to me because it was a second chance," said Young. "I was someone who enjoyed football in high school, but I had no offers going out of my senior year. I wasn't even close to big enough, as I was a 180-pound guy playing offensive line, but Citrus gave me a chance to prove myself regardless of my size and gave me the same support as they would've given to someone bigger. The coaches and players at Citrus were also incredibly supportive once I decided to switch to tight end in my sophomore year, and I earned my playing time there, which got me a scholarship to NMHU. I'm incredibly excited to be heading there, and I'm really grateful to all the coaches and players at Citrus who helped me reach this milestone."