Star safety Tieneal Martin commits to Tulsa

Tulsa Co-Defensive Coordinator Brian Norwood continues to have success on the recruiting trail with junior college athletes. Last weekend, he pulled in talented cover safety Brandon Johnson from Tyler Junior College. This weekend, Tieneal Martin of Yuba Community College committed to the Hurricane as a Star safety after an official visit.

“The coaches showed loyalty, especially Coach (Luke) Olson and Coach Norwood,” he said of why he chose Tulsa. “I feel like it’s a good fit for me, and I have family out in Oklahoma.”

During the visit, Martin got an in-depth look at the Tulsa campus and football facilities.

“They were beautiful,” he said. “I can’t wait to see how the new locker room comes out.”

The 6-foot-1 and 205-pound defensive back used his physicality and athleticism to excel at strong safety and outside linebacker for Yuba. As a sophomore this season, he racked up 70 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, six sacks, five pass breakups and five interceptions, including a 92-yard pick for a touchdown. He also forced two fumbles and collected a fumble recovery.

Martin lists his football instincts as one of his main strengths on the field.

“I’m always around the ball,” he described. “I’m always ready to hit someone and can cover in space.”

As for next season at Tulsa, Martin plans to make an immediate impact.

“Absolutely, I want to come in and solidify myself with the guys and get to work,” he said. “I plan to come in and compete.”

Martin’s commitment brings Tulsa’s 2018 recruiting class to 21 total, including a whopping eight junior college players. TU signed 17 prospects in the early period, including seven mid-term enrollees. The Hurricane also picked up Baylor quarterback transfer Zach Smith at mid-term. Tulsa now has four additional commitments with the regular signing period less than two weeks away (February 7).