SAN ANTONIO — Cole Martin was an All-American Bowl selection this year, but the Rivals250 cornerback was not able to participate. Still, the Oregon signee decided to attend the game in San Antonio to show support for his West team.
It will be a quick transition to college life for Martin as he has a flight to Oregon set for Sunday to begin his career with the Ducks as a midyear enrollee. The recruiting path to Oregon has been an interesting one for the son of Ducks defensive backs coach Demetrice Martin.
Playing for his dad always remained in the picture for the four-star prospect from Basha High School in Chandler, Arizona, but Cole Martin didn't only look at schools where Demetrice was coaching during the process.
He decided to take trips to programs around the country while still keeping an eye on what happened with his dad. Ultimately, Demetrice ended up with the Ducks after stops at Arizona and Colorado.
All the pieces fell into place when his dad landed on Dan Lanning's staff in Eugene.
"I'm super excited," Martin said about the next stage of his career at Oregon. "Being able to have the chance and opportunity to get coached by coach Lanning is huge, for one. He has a national championship mindset. He knows what it takes to get there. He knows how to develop kids as well as bring in great coaches.