Florida
Martinez
Pos: | DB |
Ht/Wt: | 6'4/180 |
Year: | 26 |
Home Town: | Davie, FL |
High School: | Western |
Player Bio
URA RANKING: 4⭐⭐ ⭐ ⭐ GRADE: 94 PROJECTION: FBS-GROUP 5
Martinez emerges as a contemporary cornerback prospect boasting an impressive blend of size, length, and athleticism. Making his mark on the IMG Academy Varsity Blue Team, which competes against the bottom 250 ranked teams by MaxPreps in the state of Florida. As a freshman starter, Martinez caught the attention of coaches on the IMG Academy Varsity White Team, which competes against the top 250 ranked teams by MaxPreps in the state of Florida while traveling out of state along with international travel for competition. While on the Varsity White Team, Martinez split playing time with a senior as a defensive back and contributed to the special team. During his sophomore year, he would not only take the starting position but would become a team captain. After his sophomore season, he was moved up to the national team, which is ranked #4 in the nation, to compete for a starting position.
Martinez possesses good linear playmaking ability in the back end. With his projected trajectory as an above-average multi-year starter at the Group 5 Division I level. His height of 6’3″ and athleticism as a rising junior are promising, as his length and range set him apart from many defensive backs. With about 20 to 25 pounds of muscle by his senior year, Martinez could become valuable to any Power 5 Division I program as a free or strong safety. Beyond his understanding of the safety position, Martinez displays fearlessness in attacking downhill or playing in the box, highlighting his outstanding ball-hawking abilities as a notable strength.
Observing Martinez in action reveals a player unafraid to seize opportunities, fearlessly attacking the football and demonstrating reliability in tackling. Comfortable in both man and off-coverage, Martinez embraces physicality and delivers spirited tackles in open-field scenarios. Instinctively ranging across the field, his above-average speed and acceleration enable him to cover substantial ground. Moreover, his change of direction and smooth hip flips add to his repertoire. While his rawness playing defensive backfield may show through at times, his patience, discipline, and understanding of the game will only improve with more reps.
Martinez is a high-ceiling prospect who, with his physicality, speed, ball skills, and arm length, showcases versatility to excel at various backend positions. His ability to disrupt passes and contribute on special teams underscores his value. As a stellar student-athlete boasting a 3.8 GPA and National Honor Society recognition, Martinez’s journey into his junior season is poised to highlight his resilience, determination, and raw talent.