Navy's football team got better yesterday without holding a practice or any other type of team function. The Midshipmen improved because safety Emmett Merchant informed head coach Ken Niumatalolo that he intends to remain at the Naval Academy and rejoin the football team. 

    Fans will remember that Merchant did not participate in spring practice because he had told the coaching staff that he was planning to leave the Naval Academy upon conclusion of the spring semester. The Georgia native could have transferred without penalty since he was only a sophomore. Prior to the start of next school year, Merchant and other juniors must sign papers that require them to graduate from the Naval Academy and serve a five-year military commitment or else be required to pay back the cost of their education.

    Merchant is projected to start at one of two safety spots alongside classmate Wyatt Middleton. The 5-foot-9, 186-pounder played in 13 games and made three starts in 2008, recording 38 tackles, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries.

     In Merchant's absence, sophomore Kwesi Mitchell ascended to the top of the depth chart at free safety with senior Darius Terry. The experience those players received during spring camp combined with the unexpected return of Merchant makes the Mids even deeper at that position.