Red Raiders Land Elite CB Prospect
Texas Tech secured a major boost to its 2026 recruiting class by landing a commitment from three-star cornerback S’Vioarean Martin, a standout from Palestine High School in Texas. With impressive credentials, Martin chose the Red Raiders over several Big 12 suitors and top-tier programs.
Martin, standing at 6‑foot‑2 and weighing around 185 pounds, brings a rare combination of size and speed to the defensive backfield. He recorded a blistering 11.05‑second 100 m dash time and contributed significantly to Palestine’s 4×100 and 4×200 relay teams.
On the gridiron, Martin delivered a standout junior season: tallying 28 tackles, four pass breakups, three tackles for loss, and forcing a fumble—while also playing some snaps at receiver, racking up 18 catches for 229 yards and two touchdowns. His athleticism and versatility were on full display throughout his recruitment cycle.
A highly regarded recruit, Martin boasts 15 scholarship offers, including from Kansas State, Houston, and Oklahoma State—but it was Texas Tech that edged out the competition. Kansas State appeared to emerge as a leader late in the process, but an official campus visit to Lubbock the weekend of June 13–15 left a lasting impression on Martin and his family. “I loved my visit at Texas Tech, couldn’t have been any better… full of great energy, culture was great, and great people!” he shared.
Rivals rates Martin as a three-star prospect and the No. 61 cornerback in the 2026 class, giving him a 5.7 rating. Conversely, On3 slotted him higher—with a four-star rating, naming him the No. 32 CB overall in his class and the No. 43 recruit in Texas.
His commitment marks Texas Tech’s 15th pledge in its 2026 cycle and the fifth defensive back, following Luke Bell, Maddox Quiller, Noah Lewis, and Aaron Bradshaw. The signing of Martin not only adds depth but also signals the program’s momentum in securing top defensive talent.
Martin will play in the prestigious Navy All‑American Bowl in San Antonio this December, joining the ranks of the nation’s elite high school talent.
Final Word
With S’Vioarean Martin officially in the fold, Texas Tech reinforces its defensive backbone for the future. His rare blend of physical tools—size, speed, and playmaking ability—gives the Red Raiders a significant recruit in their secondary. As head coach Joey McGuire continues to assemble his vision for the defense, Martin represents a pivotal piece of that foundation.