Kedric Prince, IlliniGuys Director of Recruiting

November 24, 2022

Illinois defensive back Jartavius “Quan” Martin is having a remarkable year defensively for the Fighting Illini.  For Martin, from Lehigh Acres, Florida, playing football in the Midwest at times can be a challenge in the winter.

Jarvis and Desiree Martin are the parents of the senior who should be the new spokesman for the families of all potential recruits. So much so that Jarvis said, "We love Illinois. It was the best decision ever for my son football-wise, the people here are amazing, I know it's cold, but I want to move to Champaign. This coaching staff is the real deal."

Jartavius Martin and Devon Witherspoon courtesy Illinois Athletics

Coming out of high school, he was a two-star recruit by Rivals and ranked No. 101 safety in the nation by ESPN, but he has proven that numbers do not judge player development. On the year Quan has 38 solo tackles and 48 total, with a season high against Wyoming and Wisconsin. The year is winding down for Quan and his career at Illinois but one his family will cherish forever.

"We're not done; we're going bowling again. We have made history already, but we're not done. I believe in this team--we have to keep fighting; that's what we are, the Fighting Illini,'' Jarvis said.

Desiree said, "We're happy our son is here. It's all about perseverance--he never gives up, he's grown in so many areas by being here. When the program wasn't doing so well, he never quit. We teach that in our house, we keep fighting."

Under defensive coordinator Ryan Walters he has changed the entire outlook, and Illinois has an identity. They tackle well, they hit hard, and they cover well. Illinois has led the entire county in well over 70 percent of defensive categories.

The goal now is the NFL.

"We're close, he's knocking on the door of a childhood dream. Coach Walters put these kids in a position to succeed at the next level. I would also like to thank the city of Champaign for bringing us in, all the media people like you, all matter to us," Jarvis.

Recently the Big Ten Network did a piece on Jarvis, his passion and love for the fans and players did not go unnoticed. Several recruits saw the episode and made reference to it on senior day.

"I love the Illinois fans. As you can tell, I'm a people person. You wearing orange and blue, we're friends. I want to meet them all, I will say hi, and mingle with them. We're a family here, I'm going to laugh with them. They make my family feel at home here. I wouldn't mind the move," Jarvis said.

The Illinois staff has made Illinois a place where they not only recruit the students but the families as well. Bielema was able to get many of the parents to stay when the coaching change happened, trusting his vision. For Quan, it was a great choice.

Follow me on Twitter @KedPrince4

Email: PrinceKedric@yahoo.com