He was born in Falmouth, Kentucky, and is an alumnus of Kentucky State University, where he played offensive guard on the football team from 1947-1949. He earned the nickname "Big John". He graduated in 1950 and earned a Master's degree from the University of Kentucky in 1952. He coached Jackson State University from 1953 to 1962, where he compiled a record of 60-32-4. Merritt led Jackson State to back-to-back appearances in the Orange Blossom Classic in 1961 and 1962 before being hired by Tennessee State.
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