Sherrod Martin SELECTED BY: Panthers Round 2 (27)

SI Grade 3.72 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Full-time starter the past three years after also seeing action with the starting unit as a freshman. Senior totals included 94/4/11 after 52 tackles as a junior. Posted 70 tackles as a sophomore after 68 as a freshman.

POSITIVES: Athletic defensive back who can be used at safety or cornerback. Breaks down well, fluid pedaling in reverse and displays a good break to the throw out of his plant. Covers a lot of area in centerfield, fast-moving sideline-to-sideline and displays overall quickness in his game. Takes good angles to the action, quick closing on the ball, and is relatively instinctive. Plays with a good degree of suddenness flashing on the scene. Works well with cornerbacks, picks up centerfield assignments, and displays good ball skills.

NEGATIVES: Over-pursues the action on occasion and takes himself from plays. Does not always show great timing. Has a long injury history, and he has undergone surgery on both his shoulders.

ANALYSIS: Martin was a player who really stood out as a freshman when he made an immediate impact at Troy State. He looked like a promising prospect as a sophomore before injuries slowed his development. Martin possesses the size/speed/ball skills to play at the next level, and he can be used as a safety occasionally pulled up over the slot receiver when necessary. He offers a good degree of upside, yet the medical report on his surgically repaired shoulders will ultimately dictate where he is drafted.

PROJECTION: Third Round