Mercer football: NATIONAL SIGNING DAY
12/15/2021 7:33:00 AM | Football
Macon, Ga. – Mercer head football coach Drew Cronic announced the signing of 25 student-athletes to National Letters of Intent.
"I'm really excited about the group of guys we are signing. We've addressed some depth issues and brought in some guys that will make immediate contributions to the team. We've added some size at all positions and some really good athletes with this class. A lot of these guys are really good students and really good, competitive kids who have won at the highest level of high school athletics. We're continuing to build a team that fits our culture, fits us schematically, and fits Mercer as a whole. This is an exciting time to be a Mercer Bear."
Travion Solomon | ATH | Northeast High School | Macon, Ga.
Travion Solomon is staying home in Macon to play football for the Mercer Bears. The 5-11, 170 lbs athlete played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track while at Northeast High School. Solomon comes to Mercer with tons of accolades, including two-time region player of the year, AJC All-State, Macon Touchdown Club player of the year, and Middle Georgia Player of the year honors. He is undecided on what he plans to study at Mercer.
Coach Jones on Travion Solomon
"Travion Solomon is an electrifying athlete who's from our backyard attending Northeast Macon high school! He has the chance to compete and add some big time play making ability to our offense. Cannot wait to mentor this kid!"
Caden Camese | DL | Bellevue West High School | Bellevue, NE
Caden Camese will be coming to Mercer from Bellevue, Nebraska. At 6-3 and 290 lbs, the big man will line up at defensive line for the Bears. Camese brings plenty of winning experience to the Bears, being crowned district champs all four years he played varsity football and earning the Nebraska Class A State Title in 2019. Individually, Camese earned All-State honors his sophomore through senior season. He plans to study computer science at Mercer.
Coach Long on Caden Camese
"Extremely excited about Caden. Great size kid who has great bend and explosion. Very fluid and dynamic player who will help us tremendously at the defensive tackle position."
Arias Nash | DL | Stuart Cramer High School | Belmont, NC
Arias Nash will line up on the defensive line for Mercer. The 6-3, 260 lbs big man accumulated 208 solo tackles, 371 total tackles, 15.5 sacks, 11 forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two touchdowns during his career at Stuart Cramer high school. He averaged 9.8 tackles per game during his career. His impressive work on the field earned him three-time first team all-conference accolades, second team all-state honors and the Big South 3A Defensive Player of the Year. Nash plans to study computer engineering at Mercer.
Coach Long on Arias Nash
"Arias is a fantastic addition to our defensive line. He can play defensive end as well as tackle. An extremely productive player who is extremely natural and fluid and skillful at getting off of blocks and making plays. He will increase our overall athleticism and playmaker ability"
Joe Miller | LS | Buford High School | Buford, GA
Joe Miller comes to the Bears from Buford High School in Buford, Georgia. The 6-0, 200 lbs incoming Bear will suit up as a long snapper. Miller will bring winning experience to the Bears, as he's been crowned state champion an outstanding three times with his high school. Individually, he has earned all-region honors. Miller plans to earn a dual degree in civil engineering and business administration.
Coach Cole on Joe Miller
"Joe is an exceptional Long / Short snapper! He has ELITE speed and preciseness with every snap! I'm excited about the value he's going to bring to our Special Teams!"
Kamaree Wells | S | Varina High School | Richmond, VA
Kamaree Wells will join the Bears from Varina high school in Richmond, VA. At 6-2, 190 lbs, Wells will add some length to the Bears secondary as he will be suiting up as a safety for Mercer. Wells will bring winning experience to Mercer, winning a Virginia state championship with Varina high school. His talents were individually recognized as we earned first team all-state honors.
Coach Adams on Kamaree Wells
"Kamaree comes from a state championship defense and brings a physical presence running the alley along with great range in the passing game."
CJ Miller | RB | Gadsden City High School | Rainbow City, Ala.
CJ Miller joins the Bears from Gadsden City High School. At 6-0, 235 lbs, Miller will line up at running back for the Bears. Miller has made his name known across the state of Alabama, earning 7a All-State honors on two different occasions. Additionally, he has earned All-County honors twice. He will now bring his talents to the state of Georgia and suit up for Mercer.
Coach Jones on CJ Miller
"CJ Miller is big, fast, and physical!! He's a 7a all state Running Back out of Gasden City Highschool in Gasden, Alabama. His skill set is built for this offense, and I cannot wait to see how his career unfolds here in Macon!"
Isaac Prince | LB | Shiloh High School | Snellville, Ga.
Isaac Prince will be joining the Bears from Shiloh High School in Snellville, Georgia. Prince stands 6-1 and weighs 215 lbs and will line up as a linebacker for Mercer. The four-year varsity letter winner brings a slew of accolades with him to Mercer. He has earned all-county, all-region, and most recently all-state recognition for his performance on the field. Prince plans to study biology at Mercer.
Coach Taylor on Isaac Prince
"Excited about Isaac joining our Defense and LB room. He fits what we do and how we do it. He's fast, physical, and smart. I love the way he plays the game. He has tremendous ability and will be a good player here at Mercer for a long time."
Shi'heem Watkins | S | Coastal Carolina | Blythewood High School | Columbia, SC
Shi'heem Watkins comes to Mercer as a graduate transfer from Coastal Carolina. Standing 6-0 and weighing 195 lbs, Watkins will suit up as a safety for the Bears. At Coastal, the Columbia, South Carolina Native played in 10 or more games in all three seasons he played. In his most recent season, he totaled 31 tackles and 11 solo stops on the season. During his high school career at Blythewood High School, Watkins was a four-year letter winner on the football field, being named defensive back of the year his senior season. He also lettered in soccer in high school.
Coach Adams on Shi'heem Watkins
"Shi'Heem will bring some valuable college experience to our secondary and should provide some versatility in his position knowledge."
Juwan Johnson | S | Calvary Day School | Savannah, Ga.
Standing 5-11 and weighing 190lbs, Juwan Johnson will suit up as Safety for the Bears this season. Johnson comes to Mercer after playing four years of varsity football at Calvary Day School. He helped lead his high school to the Region 3-A private title and the second round of the GSHA Class A Private playoffs. Johnson accumulated 36 tackles, four tackles for loss, five interceptions, and four passes defended on his way to earning All-Greater Savannah first-team honors and an All-Region 3-A Private first team selection.
Coach Adams on Juwan Johnson "Juwan is a physical defender with a great sense of the game who comes from a top-level Georgia high school program."
Cam Sims | CB | Georgia State | Lausanne Collegiate High School | Memphis, Tenn.
A 6-1, 180 lbs cornerback will suit up at cornerback for the Bears this season. Cam Sims comes to the Bears from Georgia State where he saw action in six games this past season. During the 2020 season he posted career highs of four tackles at Arkansas State and also grabbed an interception against Troy. In high school, Sims was a first team all-state recipient.
Coach Cole on Cam Sims
"Cam Sims is a tremendous player with an ELITE skill set! He's going to bring length and G5 game experience to our secondary / defense. I am excited to watch him compete for a starting position this spring!"
Christian Hanson | KAT | Trinity Christian High School | Sharpsburg, Ga
A 6-1, 226 lbs linebacker will line up as a KAT for the Bears this season. Hanson brings winning experience to the Mercer football program after winning the 2021 state championship. This season, the Trinity Christian linebacker was named the Region 4A private defensive player of the year for the second straight season. He was named first team all-state and first team all-region in 2019. Hanson is undecided on what he plans to study at Mercer.
Coach Ellis on Christian Hanson
"Christian is a strong, physical kid that just led Trinity Christian to their first state championship. When evaluating Christian, he is all over the field making plays and is a very physical football player. He is a great addition to our room and our program."
Daniel Shoch | QB | East Coweta High School | East Coweta, Ga
Standing 6-3 and weighing 215 lbs, Daniel Shoch will suit up at quarterback for the Bears. Playing at East Coweta High School, Shoch was a four-year letter-winning, leading the team to the 2020 region championship. He was named to the All-Region team in 2020 and First Team All-Region in 2021. He plans to study business and pre dental at Mercer.
Coach Cronic on Daniel Shoch
"Daniel is a big, strong young man with an outstanding arm. He is a winner that possesses all the intangibles."
Isaiah Washburn | KAT | Calvary Christian High School | Air Force Prep
A 6-2, 230 lbs linebacker will play KAT for the Bears. He will be joining the Mercer football program from Air Force Prep. At Calvary Christian high school, Washburn was a four-year honor roll recipient, earning letters all four years in both football and basketball. He was named first team all-county during his junior year. During his senior season, he averaged 8.9 tackles per game with 24 solo tackles and 71 total tackles. Washburn plans to study business management at Mercer with the hopes to open his own business.
Coach Ellis on Isaiah Washburn
"Isaiah was a player we recruited hard out of high school. He played multiple positions at Calvary Christian and played a big role in their success there. He plays with a great motor and is physical coming off the edge. Has the ability to do a lot for us defensively. Overall, a great addition to our program and our room."
Chris Joines | S | Reagan High School | Myrtle Beach Prep | Pfafftown, NC
Chris Joines comes to Mercer University from Reagan High School in Pfafftown, N.C. He prepped at Myrtle Beach Prep. Standing at 6-3 and weighing 190 lbs, Joines will add some length to our defensive backfield, as we will be suiting up as safety. Joines was a three-sport athlete at Reagan High School, playing football, basketball and track & field. Joines was all-state and all-county in football. He was also a state champion in track and field in the 4x100 in 2021.
Coach Adams on Chris Joines
"Chris provides great position versatility having played both cornerback and safety — his length and ball skills will expand our coverage range and his ability to learn quickly will provide immediate competition in our secondary"
Marcus Christian | KAT | Thomas County Central High School | Thomasville, Ga
At 6-4, 215 lbs Marcus Christian will suit up as a KAT for the Bears. Christian was a three-year letter winner at Thomas County Central High School in Thomasville, Ga. During his senior season, Christian had 42 tackles, 34 of which were solo to average 4.7 tackles per game during his senior season campaign. He posted 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and a blocked field goal this past season. He is undecided on what he would like to study at Mercer.
Coach Ellis on Marcus Christian
"I am excited to add Marcus to our room. Marcus is an explosive player that brings a lot of length and big play ability. He comes from a great region of football in south Georgia so he is used to having to play at a high level of football every week. He has great moment skills and is a physical sideline-to-sideline football player."
Josh Pickett | S | Lowndes High School | Valdosta, Ga
Josh Pickett will suit up at safety for the Bears. The 5-10, 172 pounder comes to Mercer from Valdosta, Ga. where he was a four-year letter winner. He helped lead Lowndes High School to a region championship. He earned first team all-region honors. He was also named outstanding defensive player for Lowndes High School. He plans to study nursing at Mercer University.
Coach Adams on Josh Pickett
"Josh comes from a championship style program where he has competed at the highest competition in the state of Georgia every year — He provides toughness and coverage skills from his time at CB — Josh has a love for the game that will boost our entire group"
Jose Gonzalez | OL | Warner Robins High School | Warner Robins, Ga
A 6-3, 270 lbs offensive lineman local to Warner Robins, Ga. is officially a Bear. Gonzalez is a four-year letter winner at Warner Robins High School. He will bring winning experience to the Bears as a two-time 5a State Champion and a two-time State runner up. Gonzalez was named to the all-region team in 2021 and all region honorable mention team in 2020. He plans to study either business or the sciences here at Mercer.
Coach Bodine on Jose Gonzalez
"Another state championship player. Actually, had a Hook & Lateral in the Championship Game. Athletic and tough! He played both Guard & Center so he has great versatility."
Eli Edwards | OL | North Forsyth High School | Cumming, Ga
The 6-4, 283 lbs offensive lineman comes to Mercer from North Forsyth high school in Cumming, Ga where he was a three-year letter winner. Edwards earned first team all-region honors and second team all-county honors. During his wrestling career, he earned third and fourth place in the region. He plans to study business or sport management at Mercer University.
Coach Bodine on Eli Edwards
"Big Athletics Tackle for us. Actually played played Guard in High School. Wrestles as well so has very good body control. Also has great length and will be huge before he leaves here."
Cedric Richardson | OL | Collins Hill High School | Lawrenceville, Ga
Cedric Richardson joins the Bears from Collins Hill High School in Lawrenceville, Ga. Standing 6-3 and weighing 250 lbs, Richardson helped lead his team to two regional championships and one state championship, earning second team All-County honors. The Lawrenceville, Ga. native is a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and track & field. He plans to study computer science at Mercer University.
Coach Bodine on Cedric Richardson
"Great any time you can get a state champion. Plays on offense, defense and special teams is a really athletic guard in our offense. Does a great job finding people in space."
Riley Bell | OL | Haralson County High School | Tallapoosa, Ga
Riley Bell comes to Mercer from Haralson County high school in Tallapoosa, Ga. Bell comes in at 6-4 and 280 lbs and will play offensive line for the Bears. At Haralson County High School, Bell recorded 72 tackles with 54 being solo tackles during his senior season. He also recorded 16 tackles for loss, four sacks and 11 passes defended during his senior year.
Coach Bodine on Riley Bell
Very athletic played almost exclusively on defense. But will be a great addition on the offense for us. Big, strong and can move and bend. Can play multiple positions on the offensive line for us.
Xavier Brantley | Joker | Montgomery County High School | Mt. Vernon, Ga
Xavier Brantley comes to the Bears from Montgomery County High School in Mt. Vernon, Ga. At 6-0, 180 lbs, Brantley will suit up as a joker for Mercer. Brantley earned all-state and all-region honors during his career at Montgomery County High School where he earned four letters. Brantley plans to study sport management at Mercer University.
Coach Harris on Xavier Brantley
"Xavier is an explosive athlete with tremendous ability. Has shown dominance on both sides of the ball. We are very grateful to have him join our program and looking forward to his future here at Mercer."
Andrew Lane | TE | Archer High School | Lawrenceville, Ga
A three-star recruit, Andrew Lane joins Mercer from Lawrenceville, Ga. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 230 lbs, Lane will suit up as a tight end of the Bears. Lane took snaps at both tight end and quarterback for the Tigers, earning four letters in his four years on the football team. He also played baseball for the Archer High School baseball team. His brother, Ethan plays offensive line at North Carolina State. He plans to study kinesiology at Mercer with the plan to be a sport physician.
Coach O'Brien on Andrew Lane
"Andrew is a physical football player, that will be able to play in the box and out wide. He is going to bring a lot of versatility to the TE room. He is a coach's son, that really understands the game."
Sawyer Burt | TE | Fort Payne High School | Fort Payne, Ala
Sawyer Burt joins the Bears from Fort Payne, Alabama where he played his high school ball at Fort Payne High School. Standing at 6-4, 235 lbs, Burt will suit up at tight end for the Bears. He earned three varsity letters playing at Fort Payne high school, earning All-Region honors in 2020.
Coach O'Brien on Sawyer Burt
"Sawyer is a big, hard-nosed Tight end. He brings an attitude to the game that will allow him to be a major presence on the field."
Robert Johnson | DL | Jacksonville State | Carrollton High School | Carrollton, Ga
At 6-0, 265 lbs Robert Johnson played his high school ball at Carrollton High School. He was a first-team all-region and first-team all-area performer for the Trojans as a senior. He was also named to the All-Gradick defensive team. During his senior season he raked up 70 tackles, 44 solo tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, and 15 QB hurries. He also wrestled and competed in track & field in high school. He spent the 2021 season at Jacksonville State.
Coach Long on Robert Johnson
"We are extremely excited about Robert. He will be able to come in a contribute for us right away. He is an in-state guy we were extremely excited about coming out of high school and has shown great ability in college."
Myles Weston | CB | Venice High School | Venice, Fla.
Myles Weston is coming to Mercer from Venice, Fla. At Venice High School he played on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. He had 33 catches for 533 yards and four touchdowns in 12 games during his senior season. The 6-0, 170 pounder will suit up as a cornerback for the Bears.
Coach Cole on Myles Weston
"Myles is an amazing, dynamic young man out of Venice High School in Florida. Myles, will bring an elite work ethic, a top notch skill set and big playmaking ability to the CB position. I am looking forward to mentor him!"
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"I'm really excited about the group of guys we are signing. We've addressed some depth issues and brought in some guys that will make immediate contributions to the team. We've added some size at all positions and some really good athletes with this class. A lot of these guys are really good students and really good, competitive kids who have won at the highest level of high school athletics. We're continuing to build a team that fits our culture, fits us schematically, and fits Mercer as a whole. This is an exciting time to be a Mercer Bear."
Travion Solomon | ATH | Northeast High School | Macon, Ga.
Travion Solomon is staying home in Macon to play football for the Mercer Bears. The 5-11, 170 lbs athlete played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track while at Northeast High School. Solomon comes to Mercer with tons of accolades, including two-time region player of the year, AJC All-State, Macon Touchdown Club player of the year, and Middle Georgia Player of the year honors. He is undecided on what he plans to study at Mercer.
Coach Jones on Travion Solomon
"Travion Solomon is an electrifying athlete who's from our backyard attending Northeast Macon high school! He has the chance to compete and add some big time play making ability to our offense. Cannot wait to mentor this kid!"
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Travion Solomon is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @Sh1fty_T1 pic.twitter.com/JHtEiwagbi
Caden Camese | DL | Bellevue West High School | Bellevue, NE
Caden Camese will be coming to Mercer from Bellevue, Nebraska. At 6-3 and 290 lbs, the big man will line up at defensive line for the Bears. Camese brings plenty of winning experience to the Bears, being crowned district champs all four years he played varsity football and earning the Nebraska Class A State Title in 2019. Individually, Camese earned All-State honors his sophomore through senior season. He plans to study computer science at Mercer.
Coach Long on Caden Camese
"Extremely excited about Caden. Great size kid who has great bend and explosion. Very fluid and dynamic player who will help us tremendously at the defensive tackle position."
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Caden Camese is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @CadenCamese pic.twitter.com/r5ImRJtjmc
Arias Nash | DL | Stuart Cramer High School | Belmont, NC
Arias Nash will line up on the defensive line for Mercer. The 6-3, 260 lbs big man accumulated 208 solo tackles, 371 total tackles, 15.5 sacks, 11 forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two touchdowns during his career at Stuart Cramer high school. He averaged 9.8 tackles per game during his career. His impressive work on the field earned him three-time first team all-conference accolades, second team all-state honors and the Big South 3A Defensive Player of the Year. Nash plans to study computer engineering at Mercer.
Coach Long on Arias Nash
"Arias is a fantastic addition to our defensive line. He can play defensive end as well as tackle. An extremely productive player who is extremely natural and fluid and skillful at getting off of blocks and making plays. He will increase our overall athleticism and playmaker ability"
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Arias Nash is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @_anash7_ pic.twitter.com/qFLpSBIz0i
Joe Miller | LS | Buford High School | Buford, GA
Joe Miller comes to the Bears from Buford High School in Buford, Georgia. The 6-0, 200 lbs incoming Bear will suit up as a long snapper. Miller will bring winning experience to the Bears, as he's been crowned state champion an outstanding three times with his high school. Individually, he has earned all-region honors. Miller plans to earn a dual degree in civil engineering and business administration.
Coach Cole on Joe Miller
"Joe is an exceptional Long / Short snapper! He has ELITE speed and preciseness with every snap! I'm excited about the value he's going to bring to our Special Teams!"
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Joe Miller is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @JoeVMiller1 pic.twitter.com/FNyDnG8UGd
Kamaree Wells | S | Varina High School | Richmond, VA
Kamaree Wells will join the Bears from Varina high school in Richmond, VA. At 6-2, 190 lbs, Wells will add some length to the Bears secondary as he will be suiting up as a safety for Mercer. Wells will bring winning experience to Mercer, winning a Virginia state championship with Varina high school. His talents were individually recognized as we earned first team all-state honors.
Coach Adams on Kamaree Wells
"Kamaree comes from a state championship defense and brings a physical presence running the alley along with great range in the passing game."
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Kamaree Wells is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @airmaree pic.twitter.com/zyxd7xMELA
CJ Miller | RB | Gadsden City High School | Rainbow City, Ala.
CJ Miller joins the Bears from Gadsden City High School. At 6-0, 235 lbs, Miller will line up at running back for the Bears. Miller has made his name known across the state of Alabama, earning 7a All-State honors on two different occasions. Additionally, he has earned All-County honors twice. He will now bring his talents to the state of Georgia and suit up for Mercer.
Coach Jones on CJ Miller
"CJ Miller is big, fast, and physical!! He's a 7a all state Running Back out of Gasden City Highschool in Gasden, Alabama. His skill set is built for this offense, and I cannot wait to see how his career unfolds here in Macon!"
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
CJ Miller is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @MillerCjay pic.twitter.com/xP9rIiZZS8
Isaac Prince | LB | Shiloh High School | Snellville, Ga.
Isaac Prince will be joining the Bears from Shiloh High School in Snellville, Georgia. Prince stands 6-1 and weighs 215 lbs and will line up as a linebacker for Mercer. The four-year varsity letter winner brings a slew of accolades with him to Mercer. He has earned all-county, all-region, and most recently all-state recognition for his performance on the field. Prince plans to study biology at Mercer.
Coach Taylor on Isaac Prince
"Excited about Isaac joining our Defense and LB room. He fits what we do and how we do it. He's fast, physical, and smart. I love the way he plays the game. He has tremendous ability and will be a good player here at Mercer for a long time."
We have another signee in!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Isaac Prince is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @Isaacprince_11 pic.twitter.com/eW7tnd0Agg
Shi'heem Watkins | S | Coastal Carolina | Blythewood High School | Columbia, SC
Shi'heem Watkins comes to Mercer as a graduate transfer from Coastal Carolina. Standing 6-0 and weighing 195 lbs, Watkins will suit up as a safety for the Bears. At Coastal, the Columbia, South Carolina Native played in 10 or more games in all three seasons he played. In his most recent season, he totaled 31 tackles and 11 solo stops on the season. During his high school career at Blythewood High School, Watkins was a four-year letter winner on the football field, being named defensive back of the year his senior season. He also lettered in soccer in high school.
Coach Adams on Shi'heem Watkins
"Shi'Heem will bring some valuable college experience to our secondary and should provide some versatility in his position knowledge."
We have our first signee in!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) February 2, 2022
Shi'heem Watkins is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @flyeaglesfly0 pic.twitter.com/Cc0QmYbaBT
Juwan Johnson | S | Calvary Day School | Savannah, Ga.
Standing 5-11 and weighing 190lbs, Juwan Johnson will suit up as Safety for the Bears this season. Johnson comes to Mercer after playing four years of varsity football at Calvary Day School. He helped lead his high school to the Region 3-A private title and the second round of the GSHA Class A Private playoffs. Johnson accumulated 36 tackles, four tackles for loss, five interceptions, and four passes defended on his way to earning All-Greater Savannah first-team honors and an All-Region 3-A Private first team selection.
Coach Adams on Juwan Johnson "Juwan is a physical defender with a great sense of the game who comes from a top-level Georgia high school program."
We have another signee! @IamJuwanJohnson is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗...#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar pic.twitter.com/Ta4pgbVKtG
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) January 21, 2022
Cam Sims | CB | Georgia State | Lausanne Collegiate High School | Memphis, Tenn.
A 6-1, 180 lbs cornerback will suit up at cornerback for the Bears this season. Cam Sims comes to the Bears from Georgia State where he saw action in six games this past season. During the 2020 season he posted career highs of four tackles at Arkansas State and also grabbed an interception against Troy. In high school, Sims was a first team all-state recipient.
Coach Cole on Cam Sims
"Cam Sims is a tremendous player with an ELITE skill set! He's going to bring length and G5 game experience to our secondary / defense. I am excited to watch him compete for a starting position this spring!"
We have another signee…
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) January 11, 2022
Cam Sims is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @Strapp1eight pic.twitter.com/Gf41EFvdyr
Christian Hanson | KAT | Trinity Christian High School | Sharpsburg, Ga
A 6-1, 226 lbs linebacker will line up as a KAT for the Bears this season. Hanson brings winning experience to the Mercer football program after winning the 2021 state championship. This season, the Trinity Christian linebacker was named the Region 4A private defensive player of the year for the second straight season. He was named first team all-state and first team all-region in 2019. Hanson is undecided on what he plans to study at Mercer.
Coach Ellis on Christian Hanson
"Christian is a strong, physical kid that just led Trinity Christian to their first state championship. When evaluating Christian, he is all over the field making plays and is a very physical football player. He is a great addition to our room and our program."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Christian Hanson is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @christian2hanso pic.twitter.com/o9u81V4EjL
Daniel Shoch | QB | East Coweta High School | East Coweta, Ga
Standing 6-3 and weighing 215 lbs, Daniel Shoch will suit up at quarterback for the Bears. Playing at East Coweta High School, Shoch was a four-year letter-winning, leading the team to the 2020 region championship. He was named to the All-Region team in 2020 and First Team All-Region in 2021. He plans to study business and pre dental at Mercer.
Coach Cronic on Daniel Shoch
"Daniel is a big, strong young man with an outstanding arm. He is a winner that possesses all the intangibles."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Daniel Shoch is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @ShochDaniel pic.twitter.com/yHz3izxQ4f
Isaiah Washburn | KAT | Calvary Christian High School | Air Force Prep
A 6-2, 230 lbs linebacker will play KAT for the Bears. He will be joining the Mercer football program from Air Force Prep. At Calvary Christian high school, Washburn was a four-year honor roll recipient, earning letters all four years in both football and basketball. He was named first team all-county during his junior year. During his senior season, he averaged 8.9 tackles per game with 24 solo tackles and 71 total tackles. Washburn plans to study business management at Mercer with the hopes to open his own business.
Coach Ellis on Isaiah Washburn
"Isaiah was a player we recruited hard out of high school. He played multiple positions at Calvary Christian and played a big role in their success there. He plays with a great motor and is physical coming off the edge. Has the ability to do a lot for us defensively. Overall, a great addition to our program and our room."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Isaiah Washburn is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @washburn_isaiah pic.twitter.com/X7qXQhFX9E
Chris Joines | S | Reagan High School | Myrtle Beach Prep | Pfafftown, NC
Chris Joines comes to Mercer University from Reagan High School in Pfafftown, N.C. He prepped at Myrtle Beach Prep. Standing at 6-3 and weighing 190 lbs, Joines will add some length to our defensive backfield, as we will be suiting up as safety. Joines was a three-sport athlete at Reagan High School, playing football, basketball and track & field. Joines was all-state and all-county in football. He was also a state champion in track and field in the 4x100 in 2021.
Coach Adams on Chris Joines
"Chris provides great position versatility having played both cornerback and safety — his length and ball skills will expand our coverage range and his ability to learn quickly will provide immediate competition in our secondary"
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Chris Joines is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @chris_joines5 pic.twitter.com/a1rmYOoxUZ
Marcus Christian | KAT | Thomas County Central High School | Thomasville, Ga
At 6-4, 215 lbs Marcus Christian will suit up as a KAT for the Bears. Christian was a three-year letter winner at Thomas County Central High School in Thomasville, Ga. During his senior season, Christian had 42 tackles, 34 of which were solo to average 4.7 tackles per game during his senior season campaign. He posted 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and a blocked field goal this past season. He is undecided on what he would like to study at Mercer.
Coach Ellis on Marcus Christian
"I am excited to add Marcus to our room. Marcus is an explosive player that brings a lot of length and big play ability. He comes from a great region of football in south Georgia so he is used to having to play at a high level of football every week. He has great moment skills and is a physical sideline-to-sideline football player."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Marcus Christian is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @Marcus7C7 pic.twitter.com/1swz150Rfx
Josh Pickett | S | Lowndes High School | Valdosta, Ga
Josh Pickett will suit up at safety for the Bears. The 5-10, 172 pounder comes to Mercer from Valdosta, Ga. where he was a four-year letter winner. He helped lead Lowndes High School to a region championship. He earned first team all-region honors. He was also named outstanding defensive player for Lowndes High School. He plans to study nursing at Mercer University.
Coach Adams on Josh Pickett
"Josh comes from a championship style program where he has competed at the highest competition in the state of Georgia every year — He provides toughness and coverage skills from his time at CB — Josh has a love for the game that will boost our entire group"
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Josh Pickett is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @jPicc14 pic.twitter.com/bKuKnyxNXN
Jose Gonzalez | OL | Warner Robins High School | Warner Robins, Ga
A 6-3, 270 lbs offensive lineman local to Warner Robins, Ga. is officially a Bear. Gonzalez is a four-year letter winner at Warner Robins High School. He will bring winning experience to the Bears as a two-time 5a State Champion and a two-time State runner up. Gonzalez was named to the all-region team in 2021 and all region honorable mention team in 2020. He plans to study either business or the sciences here at Mercer.
Coach Bodine on Jose Gonzalez
"Another state championship player. Actually, had a Hook & Lateral in the Championship Game. Athletic and tough! He played both Guard & Center so he has great versatility."
It's in.... Jose Gonzalez is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Twitter - @JoseGonzalezOT pic.twitter.com/wDjVas946s
Eli Edwards | OL | North Forsyth High School | Cumming, Ga
The 6-4, 283 lbs offensive lineman comes to Mercer from North Forsyth high school in Cumming, Ga where he was a three-year letter winner. Edwards earned first team all-region honors and second team all-county honors. During his wrestling career, he earned third and fourth place in the region. He plans to study business or sport management at Mercer University.
Coach Bodine on Eli Edwards
"Big Athletics Tackle for us. Actually played played Guard in High School. Wrestles as well so has very good body control. Also has great length and will be huge before he leaves here."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Eli Edwards is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @Eli_Edwards63 pic.twitter.com/4tv62vekng
Cedric Richardson | OL | Collins Hill High School | Lawrenceville, Ga
Cedric Richardson joins the Bears from Collins Hill High School in Lawrenceville, Ga. Standing 6-3 and weighing 250 lbs, Richardson helped lead his team to two regional championships and one state championship, earning second team All-County honors. The Lawrenceville, Ga. native is a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and track & field. He plans to study computer science at Mercer University.
Coach Bodine on Cedric Richardson
"Great any time you can get a state champion. Plays on offense, defense and special teams is a really athletic guard in our offense. Does a great job finding people in space."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Cedric Richardson is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @cjexpress50 pic.twitter.com/EtMnJ4j50P
Riley Bell | OL | Haralson County High School | Tallapoosa, Ga
Riley Bell comes to Mercer from Haralson County high school in Tallapoosa, Ga. Bell comes in at 6-4 and 280 lbs and will play offensive line for the Bears. At Haralson County High School, Bell recorded 72 tackles with 54 being solo tackles during his senior season. He also recorded 16 tackles for loss, four sacks and 11 passes defended during his senior year.
Coach Bodine on Riley Bell
Very athletic played almost exclusively on defense. But will be a great addition on the offense for us. Big, strong and can move and bend. Can play multiple positions on the offensive line for us.
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Riley Bell is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @bell3488 pic.twitter.com/AZUFwxATBl
Xavier Brantley | Joker | Montgomery County High School | Mt. Vernon, Ga
Xavier Brantley comes to the Bears from Montgomery County High School in Mt. Vernon, Ga. At 6-0, 180 lbs, Brantley will suit up as a joker for Mercer. Brantley earned all-state and all-region honors during his career at Montgomery County High School where he earned four letters. Brantley plans to study sport management at Mercer University.
Coach Harris on Xavier Brantley
"Xavier is an explosive athlete with tremendous ability. Has shown dominance on both sides of the ball. We are very grateful to have him join our program and looking forward to his future here at Mercer."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Xavier Brantley is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @Zay_Brantley9 pic.twitter.com/MN9Jhp5pIO
Andrew Lane | TE | Archer High School | Lawrenceville, Ga
A three-star recruit, Andrew Lane joins Mercer from Lawrenceville, Ga. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 230 lbs, Lane will suit up as a tight end of the Bears. Lane took snaps at both tight end and quarterback for the Tigers, earning four letters in his four years on the football team. He also played baseball for the Archer High School baseball team. His brother, Ethan plays offensive line at North Carolina State. He plans to study kinesiology at Mercer with the plan to be a sport physician.
Coach O'Brien on Andrew Lane
"Andrew is a physical football player, that will be able to play in the box and out wide. He is going to bring a lot of versatility to the TE room. He is a coach's son, that really understands the game."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Andrew Lane is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @andrew_lane11 pic.twitter.com/HVtQ36mueZ
Sawyer Burt | TE | Fort Payne High School | Fort Payne, Ala
Sawyer Burt joins the Bears from Fort Payne, Alabama where he played his high school ball at Fort Payne High School. Standing at 6-4, 235 lbs, Burt will suit up at tight end for the Bears. He earned three varsity letters playing at Fort Payne high school, earning All-Region honors in 2020.
Coach O'Brien on Sawyer Burt
"Sawyer is a big, hard-nosed Tight end. He brings an attitude to the game that will allow him to be a major presence on the field."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Sawyer Burt is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @sawyer_burt pic.twitter.com/mDsbHTJsbd
Robert Johnson | DL | Jacksonville State | Carrollton High School | Carrollton, Ga
At 6-0, 265 lbs Robert Johnson played his high school ball at Carrollton High School. He was a first-team all-region and first-team all-area performer for the Trojans as a senior. He was also named to the All-Gradick defensive team. During his senior season he raked up 70 tackles, 44 solo tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, and 15 QB hurries. He also wrestled and competed in track & field in high school. He spent the 2021 season at Jacksonville State.
Coach Long on Robert Johnson
"We are extremely excited about Robert. He will be able to come in a contribute for us right away. He is an in-state guy we were extremely excited about coming out of high school and has shown great ability in college."
We have another signee...
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 15, 2021
Robert Johnson is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @_yxng_rob pic.twitter.com/8GgrME0P4d
Myles Weston | CB | Venice High School | Venice, Fla.
Myles Weston is coming to Mercer from Venice, Fla. At Venice High School he played on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. He had 33 catches for 533 yards and four touchdowns in 12 games during his senior season. The 6-0, 170 pounder will suit up as a cornerback for the Bears.
Coach Cole on Myles Weston
"Myles is an amazing, dynamic young man out of Venice High School in Florida. Myles, will bring an elite work ethic, a top notch skill set and big playmaking ability to the CB position. I am looking forward to mentor him!"
We have another signee!
— Mercer Football (@MercerFootball) December 16, 2021
Myles Weston is officially a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖗#Bearwitne22 | #RaiseTheBar | #NSD22
Twitter - @RhondyW pic.twitter.com/k8Et9Kwgkt
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