Three-star running back Zaylan Chapple has transferred from Cocoa High School to Merritt Island High School, according to an Instagram post Wednesday. The move adds Chapple to Merritt Island’s backfield alongside four-star quarterback Kevin Verpaele, a USF commitment. Chapple, a 2028 graduate, rushed for 458 yards and seven touchdowns last season for Cocoa’s Class 2A state semifinalist team. He also caught 12 passes for 84 yards.
Chapple’s arrival follows a strong junior season by Verpaele, who completed 191 of 302 passes for 2,714 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2025. The quarterback also rushed for 480 yards and four scores. The combination of Chapple and Verpaele could form one of the top backfields on the Space Coast.
Merritt Island’s offense will also include 2027 three-star tight end DeShaun Thomas, who is committed to Pittsburgh. The Mustangs named Nate Hooks as their new head coach this offseason. Hooks previously served as Merritt Island’s quarterbacks coach and is a Cocoa High School alum. He replaces Ryan Schneider, who stepped down after leading Merritt Island to three straight state titles from 2022-24. Schneider is now the head coach at Melbourne Central Catholic.
Cocoa finished 2025 with a 9-3 record, falling in the Class 2A regional finals. Chapple scored the game-winning touchdown in the final minute of that 17-10 loss to Bradford High School. The transfer comes as Merritt Island looks to rebuild after Schneider’s departure. Hooks’ hiring and Chapple’s addition are early signs of a potential offensive overhaul.