Akron Safety Kerry Martin Jr. committed to NC State earlier today after wrapping up an Official Visit. I caught up with Martin Jr. to get his reasons for deciding to run with the Wolfpack.

Why did you decide to spend your final year of eligibility at NC State?

It was a no brainer. Along with the relationships that are already instilled, I see that I have an opportunity to come in and uphold the standard that has been set. I also have the shot to be able to continue to pursue the next level and where is a better place to be than with those who know your capabilities as an athlete, and will continue to mold me as a man using their experiences in life.

How much did your prior connection to Coach Gibson play into your decision?

The connection between us was the factor. Unfortunately, I was not able to learn from his by initially signing to WVU out of high school. You can say that life has its way of making things come full circle. Much gratitude for the situation I’m coming into, especially with open arms amongst the staff and players.

Did you talk to your cousin Derrek about his time in Raleigh?

I have not discussed it in depth with him yet, but I will soon. I’d imagine it would only exceed my expectations because of his relationships I hear about with his former teammates here.

With one year left, what’s your goals for next season?

My goal is to solely do what it takes to win, add more value to the team and compete to get to the next venture we all dream about.

What type of player is NC State getting in Kerry Martin Jr.?

The type of player NC State is getting out of me is a blue collar worker. Appreciative for everything that has come to me, and that will come. A humble person that you can talk to, so if you see me and recognize me, don’t hesitate to stop for a conversation as I enjoy learning about others.

NC State just landed a commitment from Akron Safety Kerry Martin Jr. (6’1”/195).

Martin Jr. began an Official Visit at NC State yesterday.

Prior to the visit, Martin Jr. was familiar with NC State, because he was recruited by Wolfpack Defensive Coordinator Tony Gibson before he left West Virginia to come to Raleigh. Even though he never coached him, a relationship was established.

Martin Jr.’s connections to NC State are deeper than that. Former NC State Cornerback Derrek Pitts, who is currently a member of the Tampa Bay Bucs, is his cousin.

This past year, Martin Jr. recorded 45 tackles, 2 interceptions and 6 pass breakups for Akron, starting in 9 of the 11 games he played in. His PFF Grade was 68.9.

In 2022, he had 53 tackles, 1 interception and 1 pass breakup, starting in 9 of the 11 games he played in. Martin Jr.’s PFF Grade was 60.9.

In 2019, as a Freshman for West Virginia, Martin Jr. earned PFF Freshman All-American honors, recording a grade of 70.6, with 50 tackles and 3 pass breakups.

In Game film… pic.twitter.com/vunpDgPsBC

— Kerry “KJ” Martin Jr. (@_thekerrymartin) January 16, 2024

Ohio State Transfer Safety Ja’Had Carter (6’1″/205) is taking an Official Visit to NC State beginning today according to a source.

Carter played in 8 games as a reserve (6 at Safety/2 on strictly Special Teams) for the Buckeyes this past season, recording 5 tackles.

Prior to joining Ohio St., Carter played his first 3 seasons at Syracuse. In 2022, he was All-ACC Honorable Mention, tallying 36 tackles, 3 interceptions and 3 pass breakups. In 2020, as a True Freshman, Carter earned Freshman All-American status. Over three seasons with the Orange, Carter started in 28 of the 31 games he has played in.

PFF

NC State has offered Colorado Defensive Tackle Transfer Chazz Wallace (6’2″/295), and he confirmed with me that he will be taking an Official Visit to Raleigh tomorrow.

Nc state offered pic.twitter.com/CVVUur9Wqa

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) May 6, 2024

Wallace played in 10 games for Coach Prime this past season, starting in 4. He finished with 11 tackles and 1.5 sacks. His PFF Grade was 56.4.

Prior to Colorado, Wallace spent his first three years at Old Dominion.

pic.twitter.com/M1TcS2OP3I

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024

some 5 tech and 4i run tape pic.twitter.com/2qT4DuLB7Y

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024

some rush clips pic.twitter.com/qucRoMGdWP

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024

some 5 tech and 4i run tape pic.twitter.com/2qT4DuLB7Y

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024

0 tech run tape pic.twitter.com/dGq0snWk1V

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024

run tape and effort to the ball pic.twitter.com/QUu5CsY1fg

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 18, 2024

some rush clips pic.twitter.com/qucRoMGdWP

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024

pic.twitter.com/FC8H0h0e3N

— Chazz Wallace 🇯🇲 (@Chazzwallace1) April 16, 2024