Virginia Tech made a big splash a few weeks ago when they landed a commitment from three-star DT Tyas Martin, the top recruit in the state of Arkansas according to Rivals. Martin's relationship with the Hokies' coaches and his defensive fit proved to be big reasons for his decision to commit to VT.
"I had a good relationship with the coaches, and they run a 4-3 defense," Martin said. "The DL coaches said I'll fit good there."
As mentioned above, Martin's fit in the defensive scheme was a big selling point during his recruitment. As a versatile defensive tackle, the Hokies provide him the opportunities he was searching for.
"I can play the nose or 3-tech, so I have a chance to come in and play right away," Martin said. "They will be moving me from a nose to 3-tech back and forth."
This offseason, Virginia Tech brought in a pair of new defensive line coaches in Buffalo Bills DL coach Bill Teerlinck and Hokie Hall of Famer Darryl Tapp. The duo has already provided a spark due to Teerlinck's highly successful NFL tenure and Tapp's impressive NFL career.
"It was very important to me because I want to get to the NFL, so they know what it takes to get there," Martin said.
Beyond just the coaching and playing experience at the next level, Martin said Teerlinck and Tapp are just genuine people.
"My relationship is good with them," Martin said. "It impacted my decision a lot because they kept it straight up with me and didn't sugar coat anything."
Both his fit in the Hokies' defense and his relationship with the coaches proved to be more than enough for Tech to gain Martin's commitment despite not having visited VT previously.
Martin chose the Hokies over Kansas, Tennessee, and Virginia, among others, becoming Tech's first defensive line commit in what is expected to be a large defensive line commit. Additionally, Martin gives the Hokies some much-needed size on the defensive line at 6'3'' and 318 pounds according to 247 Sports, epitomizing how Tech is prioritizing getting bigger on the defensive line.
His next focus will be on continuing to improve during his senior season as he pursues a state title to achieve his desire to "go out on top."
Back on the recruiting trail, Tyas Martin believes that Virginia Tech has more in store for the 2021 class with Martin having a clear message for other recruits considering the Hokies.
"It's something special, so come be a part of it."
