Los Angeles Chargers undrafted rookie spotlight: Koda Martin
By Travis Wakeman
The Los Angeles Chargers tried to bring in as many options for the offensive line as they could.
In addition to drafting Trey Pipkins, the team brought in three undrafted free agents. One of those players was Koda Martin, a well-traveled football player.
Born in Texas, Martin went to Texas A&M to play football for the Aggies. While there, he met and entered into a relationship with Jazzmin Babers, who was a player on the Texas A&M volleyball team. She is also the daughter of Dino Babers, head coach at Syracuse.
Prior to his senior year, Martin transferred to Syracuse after Babers hired his father to be the quarterbacks coach for the Orange. Jazzmin came along to make it a true family affair.
Martin actually started his college career at tight end before being transitioned to the offensive line. He played both left tackle and right tackle and in his lone year at Syracuse, he started every game at right tackle.
He comes to a Chargers team that will be looking for quality depth along the offensive line. He likely projects best at the next level as a guard. Most teams usually like to keep around eight offensive linemen on the 53-man roster. If the Chargers keep eight, Martin could easily be in the mix.
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Chance to make final roster (1-10 scale): 4
Martin does not possess crazy athletic ability but he does have a high football IQ, comes from a football family and will give his absolute best to continue his playing career. His versatility as an offensive lineman should work in his favor and if he doesn’t make the team, a spot on the practice squad is likely in order.
If you figure that Russell Okung, Mike Pouncey, Michael Schofield, Sam Tevi, Dan Feeney, Forrest Lamp and Trey Pipkins have spots on the roster, Martin would have to take a roster spot from a player such as Spencer Drango, Scott Quessenberry or Trent Scott. Not impossible by any means.
Martin will wear jersey No. 65. Look for him this summer.