3 QBs Tennessee should be eyeing with Jake Merklinger planning to leave

Tennessee's backup spot in 2026 is up for grabs.
Tennessee quarterback Jake Merklinger (12) and Tennessee wide receiver Amari Jefferson (81) smile after a NCAA football game between Tennessee and UAB at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., September 20, 2025.
Tennessee quarterback Jake Merklinger (12) and Tennessee wide receiver Amari Jefferson (81) smile after a NCAA football game between Tennessee and UAB at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., September 20, 2025. | Angelina Alcantar/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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3. KJ Cooper, Texas Southern

KJ Cooper would be the perfect veteran backup option for Tennessee next fall. Cooper has prototypical size at 6-foot-5, 215 pounds, and a big arm that can make difficult throws.

In 2025, he threw for 1,611 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions. He also added nearly 300 yards on the ground, offering a dual-threat capability. Cooper started his career at Minnesota State Community & Technical College before transfering to Texas Southern.

Cooper offers a signal-caller with plenty of experience and the ability to run a Heupel style offense.

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