Mon Sep 09 14:27:36 UTC 2024: ## Louisville Football Secures First Two Commitments for 2026 Class
**LOUISVILLE, KY** – Following a strong start to the season with two wins, Louisville football is already making waves on the recruiting trail, securing their first two commitments for the 2026 class.
**In-state talent fills early roster spots:**
– **Brady Ballart**, an inside linebacker from South Dearborn High School in Indiana, committed to the Cardinals on Sunday. Ballart, a sophomore, boasts impressive stats with 64 tackles and 7 tackles for loss last season. He chose Louisville over several other schools, including Ball State, Eastern Michigan, Toledo, and Miami (Ohio).
– **Max Merz**, an offensive lineman from Highlands High School, committed earlier in the week on Thursday. The 6-foot-4, 310-pound lineman is staying in-state for college and helped block for a potent Highlands offense in 2023, contributing to their 12-2 record and state semifinal appearance. Merz chose Louisville over Eastern Kentucky, Kent State, Marshall, and Toledo.
**Building for the future under Brohm:**
These commitments mark the beginning of Coach Jeff Brohm’s third recruiting class at Louisville. His previous two classes have shown promise, with the 2024 class featuring standout running backs Isaac Brown and Duke Watson. The 2025 class currently ranks 67th nationally according to 247Sports.
Louisville fans will be eager to see how these early commitments translate into future success on the field. With two solid wins already under their belt, Coach Brohm’s Cardinals are off to a strong start, both on and off the field.