Interview: 2021 Rising Star DT Tyas Martin Covers Workouts and Recruiting Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The future is immensely bright for Class of 2021 Jacksonville High School defensive tackle Tyas Martin. At 6-4, 315-pounds, he already has a college ready sized body and is adding the necessary elements to his tool belt to be a highly prized recruit. His production is there after ending the 2018 schedule with 65 tackles, five tackles for a loss, two sacks, and a fumble recovery earning All-Conference honors in a 3-7 season with the Titans. Now college coaches throughout the region are taking notice.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Martin and I covered his offseason goals with an update on his recruiting interest and unofficial visits.
*Click link for Nov. 13, 2018, RNG interview with Tyas Martin
Interview
Tyas, we spoke at the end of the 2018 season recapping all that happened. Since we last spoke, what have you been working on with your game?
“I’ve been working on my pass rush, footwork, and my conditioning.”
Where are you seeing the biggest improvements with the work put into your talents?
“I am seeing the biggest improvements with my hands and my moves.”
Have you maxed out in the weight room this offseason?
“Yes, sir. My bench was 270, squat 410, and my power clean was 250.”
Nice. Are you going to any national camps or combines coming up?
“Yes, sir. I am going to the Adidas Three-Stripe Camp on March 23.”
That’ll be fun. With recruiting, I know things are really taking off. Which schools are showing interest?
“I am receiving interest from Arkansas, Memphis, UCA (Central Arkansas), UAPB (Arkansas-Pine Bluff), ULM (Louisiana-Monroe), and FAU (Florida Atlantic).”
Have you taken any unofficial visits over the last few weeks?
“Yes, sir. I visited Arkansas (Jan. 26).”
How did the Arkansas visit go?
“It was good. I talked to the coaches, it was great catching up with them.”
What did the coaches talk to you about during the visit?
“They talked about the camps they want me to come to and some about recruiting.”
Do you have any upcoming visits you may take?
“Yes, sir. I plan on going back to Arkansas on March 30 for a spring practice.”
Nice. Switching away from recruiting. Are you watching any YouTube videos of former or current players to learn more about technique or style of play?
“Yes, sir. I watch videos of Aaron Donald (Los Angeles Rams).”
What are you liking that you are seeing from him?
“He has fast hands, great speed, good footwork and great technique.”
A few months into your offseason grind, what are the overall goals you have set for yourself to accomplish before fall camp with the Titans?
“My goals are to be more disciplined in all that I do on the field and to be better at reading offensive linemen.”
Tyas, it was great catching up with you today. I wish you success at your upcoming camp and visit to Arkansas.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Martin family; Tyas Martin with Arkansas head coach Chad Morris