Certainly you’ve noticed the uptick in quality for the Syracuse Orange football program lately. Some of that’s measurable in terms of things like wins (obviously) and season ticket sales. Another way is in terms of players with a chance to get selected in the NFL Draft.
With that event coming up on Thursday, April 25, we wanted to profile Syracuse players that will warrant consideration this year. We’ve covered some potential draftees over the week with Eric Dungey, Jamal Custis, Cody Conway and Chris Slayton. Today we’re looking to profile another offensive tackle in Koda Martin.
Name: Koda Martin
Position: Offensive tackle
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 304 lbs.
Hometown: Manvel, Tex.
NFL Draft Projections: Undrafted
Senior Stats: All-ACC third team selection. 13-game starter at right tackle, 31.5 pancake blocks, offense was 11th in the nation for scoring (40.2ppg) and set program records for points (523) and rushing touchdowns (38).
Career Stats: On top of the Syracuse stats mentioned above, played in 34 games for the Texas A&M Aggies. Started for the Aggies his junior season, with the offense averaging 406.8 yards per game.
Game to Watch: 2018 vs Louisville; Martin recorded a career best 7.5 pancakes against the Cards. You could also look at his A&M film against Alabama for some film against NFL talent.
Pro Day/Scouting Combine Performance: 24 reps at 225 bench press
Pros
Similar to the previously profiled Conway, Martin is quite the standout pass blocker. The tackle knows how to utilize his length and solid footwork to his advantage, and was able to compete at a top level in both the SEC and ACC against potential pros, week in and week out.
Cons
Also similar to Conway, Martin’s weakness is his run blocking. The modern game could lead to Martin being able to sign on with a squad due to his pass blocking proficiency though.
Fun Fact: Koda came into Texas A&M split between tight end and tackle. He played both during his redshirt freshman year.
TNIAAM Draft Prediction: I don’t know if Martin will get picked up in the draft itself, but there are definite possibilities for him to grab a slot as an undrafted free agent this season.
Highlight Reel: Syracuse vs. Louisville 2018, and Texas A&M vs. Alabama 2017