If there is a quota to fill on players named Martinez at Nebraska, the Huskers could be in some trouble. After already losing quarterback Taylor Martinez to graduation, the Cornhuskers will also lose his brother, safety Drake Martinez. The younger of the Martinez brothers intends to transfer from Nebraska.
Husker Illustrated reports Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini has confirmed the transfer for Martinez, a freshman safety most likely to be a backup in the fall in Nebraska’s secondary. His father confirmed the news with ESPN.com as well. Martinez has been battling some health issues that held him out of the spring and has caused him to lose some size as well.
So where will Martinez go from here? A clean slate and a chance to compete for a more significant role on a team is likely what Martinez will be looking for. San Diego State seems like a logical option, according to Husker Corner, given Martinez being a California native and once holding an offer from the Aztecs. As noted by Husker Illustrated, Nebraska will welcome incoming freshman Kieran Williams to fill a void on the depth chart, if nothing else.
Martinez will have to sit out the 2014 season if he transfers to another FBS program according to NCAA rules. If he transfers to an FCS program (or lower), he will be eligible to play right away this fall.