Lincoln Mercado’s Improved Performance Boosts Geneva to Victory

Last year, Lincoln Mercado, a tight end for Geneva, had a successful junior season based on popular measures. However, he felt he needed improvement. Despite receiving ample recruiting interest leading to a scholarship commitment to Bemidji State, Mercado aimed to enhance his skills, particularly in blocking, to become a more complete tight end.

Mercado recognized his shortcomings as a blocker. At 240 pounds, he struggled to block ends and linebackers effectively. Acknowledging this, he focused on bettering his blocking abilities. “Last year, I was almost a liability, unfortunately, not being able to block ends and linebackers at 240 pounds like I should,” he noted. By summer, his mindset shifted to see blocking as essential for team success. He was determined to contribute more substantially.

His efforts paid off. Standing at 6-foot-2, Mercado added 10 pounds of muscle, bringing his weight to 250 pounds. His improvements were evident during Geneva’s 49-30 victory over Carmel in a Class 6A first-round game.

Although Mercado was less noticed during the season, his performance in key moments was undeniable. He caught three passes for 58 yards and scored touchdowns of 20 and 23 yards. His bolstered blocking became crucial in Geneva’s playoff win.

Ben Peterson, a senior quarterback bound for Eastern Michigan, completed 14 of 21 passes for 257 yards and four touchdowns. He connected with Mercado for two touchdowns and also found receiver Bennett Konkey for another touchdown, as Geneva’s offense excelled against Carmel.

Konkey, an Illinois recruit, recorded five receptions for 127 yards. Senior running back Nelson Wendell added two touchdowns and 81 rushing yards, while defensive back Tate Beran scored on a 28-yard interception return.

“Lincoln is a tremendous receiver in the passing game, even though his stats don’t show that as much,” Geneva coach Boone Thorgesen said. “He runs good routes and is hard to tackle in the open field.”

Last season, Mercado had 26 receptions for 272 yards and six touchdowns, but injuries hampered the team’s playoff hopes. This year, with better health, Mercado has become vital, especially in blocking roles.

Quarterback Peterson praised Mercado’s contribution. “Even with fewer targets this year, he’s very active in blocking,” said Peterson. Mercado’s involvement helped keep Carmel’s quarterback Reed Dangel, who completed 25 of 39 passes for 253 yards, in check.

Mercado’s efforts increased his receiving totals to 23 catches for 250 yards and four touchdowns this season. “I play fullback too,” he said. “I’m versatile, which impressed the Bemidji coaches.”