Koda Martin

Koda Martin's Biography

Dakoda Kirk Martin, often known as Koda Martin, was born on the 21st of August, 1995, in El Paso, Texas. This brief biography traces his rise from the high school gridiron to the heights of professional American football. Simultaneously, it chronicles his transition from high school student to promising college star and his trajectory as a professional athlete.

Born in El Paso, Texas, Koda was raised in a household where athleticism and sports were inherently valued. His father, Kirk Martin, not only anchored his early interest in football but also coached him at Manvel High School. His mother, Caren, was also a sports enthusiast, leaving a distinct impression on young Koda.

His natural knack for football rapidly evolved under his father’s guidance. During his senior year at high school, Koda amassed an impressive 72 tackles alongside nine sacks and seven forced fumbles. This grand performance caught attention nationwide, ultimately enabling him to receive considerable honours and accolades.

Capitalizing on his prodigious talent, Texas A&M University offered him a coveted scholarship. Koda decided to redshirt his freshman year in 2014, but by 2015, he had made his mark, featuring in eight games and scoring a touchdown on defense against Ball State.

Koda found his rhythm by his sophomore year in 2016, making four starts in 13 games. He started thrice as an offensive tackle and once as a tight end. In 2017, he was a constant fixture, starting in all but one game at left tackle. After several flourishing seasons at Texas A&M, Koda transferred to Syracuse in May 2018.

At Syracuse, his performance reached new heights, with him starting all 13 games during his senior year, leading the team in snaps, and earning himself a spot on the prestigious 2018 All-ACC football team. Despite his impressive college career, Koda went unselected in the 2019 NFL Draft, a disheartening moment for the young athlete.

Notwithstanding this setback, his perseverance did not waver. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Los Angeles Chargers on the 27th of April. Though Koda encountered a roadblock when he was injured and subsequently placed on reserve, it was not to deter him from his calendar.

On August 4, 2020, the Arizona Cardinals offered him a lifeline. Although he was released after roster cuts and later reassigned to the practice squad, he finally made his NFL debut during a game against Jacksonville Jaguars on September 26. Playing on special teams, his performance contributed to the Cardinal’s 31-19 victory.

However, his journey with the Cardinals was full of highs and lows. Following multiple waives, releases, and practice squad assignments, he eventually signed a reserve/future contract with the Cardinals on January 19, 2022. Sadly, Koda was released again in August 2022 only to find a glimmer of opportunity waiting with the New Orleans Saints.

Depicting his resiliency, Koda signed another reserve/future contract with the Saints on January 11, 2023, after being waived in July. When Trai Turner, a fellow offensive lineman, endured a season-ending injury, Koda was the chosen replacement. Despite this opportunity, his tenure with the Saints remained unstable and was eventually waived off due to injury.

Afterward, Koda Martin’s football journey propelled him toward the XFL and he signed with St. Louis Battlehawks on December 11, 2023. Unfortunately, he was waived on March 18, 2024, marking a sobering end to this chapter of his sporting life.

Koda’s personal life reflects a similar affection for sports, particularly football. His father, Kirk, played football for UTEP Miners. Likewise, his mother, Caren, was an athlete at UTEP. Even his father-in-law, Dino Babers, formerly helmed the head coach position at Syracuse. All three of his siblings also ventured into college sports, signifying a family deeply rooted and united in their love for sports. Today, Koda Martin stands a testament to persevering in the face of adversity and the unending pursuit of one’s passion.