Tennessee is in a class of its own, Martinez told Volquest. Its the SEC. The tradition there. A place that I really hold in high esteem. It meant a lot to me. It was a big offer for me and my dad and my family. We thought really highly on them before the offer, but to getting to know the people involved we feel even better about it now. Its a big offer for me. Im very high on them. Its a very realistic option.
Im an athletic quarterback who prides himself on being able to stay in the pocket and make all the throws, Martinez said, describing his game. I want to be able to be that guy who can stand in there and make any throw on the field that needs to be made, and then have the ability to extend the play with my legs. To use that as an extra dynamic. I also pride myself on being a strong leader. I see myself as a well-rounded football player.
Its a daily thing now. I talk with coach Canales all the time, Martinez said. I talk with coach (Larry) Scott, coach Butch Jones texts me a lot, too. Ive just been in constant contact with them. Thats something that I really appreciate and really value. Theyre kind of making me a priority, so I think thats a big thing for me. Theyre high on my board, too.
Martinez and Canales have struck up a quick bond, with Tennessees quarterbacks coach delivering daily messages of motivation or encouragement. Hes a real positive guy. Showing me that he really believes in me, Martinez said. Hes been nothing but great to me. Hes reached out to my dad. Hes really doing everything right. Ive gotten a really good vibe from him, and really the Tennessee coaching staff as a whole.
Its really a realistic thing for me at this point. Theyre the hottest team in contention to kind of overthrow Cal for me right now, Martinez said. I want to experience what its like over there. Kind of get a good idea of how things are, see if I could really picture myself being there.
