One of the top Class of 2026 defensive backs in Texas high school football has decided to stay within the state’s borders.
S’Vioarean Martin, an incoming senior who plays cornerback at Palestine High School in East Texas has committed to play at Texas Tech. Martin chose the Red Raiders over another Big 12 Conference school, Kansas State, during a ceremony Thursday afternoon that was broadcast on the Dave Campbell’s Texas Football website.
Palestine 2026 CB S’Vioarean Martin (@SVioareanMartin) is a Red Raider!
— Mallory Hartley (@malloryhartley) June 19, 2025
Ranked within the top 10 cornerbacks in the state of Texas and has All-American honors, #WreckEm is getting an ATHLETE!@dctf @GPowersScout | #txhsfb pic.twitter.com/oQ3x1c7BJo
“It really started with the head coach, Coach (Joey) McGuire,” Martin told the website after making his commitment official. “Then it trickled on down to the coaching staff.
“I like what Texas Tech is building, I like their environment, the culture; I got to spend time with some players, got some wisdom and some knowledge from them, so I’m really excited.”
Martin (6-foot-2, 185 pounds) is listed as a four-star cornerback by On3.com. He also received offers from other schools such as Baylor, SMU, Oklahoma State and Houston. But it came down to Texas Tech and Kansas State, with both teams’ hats on display at Martin’s commitment ceremony.
There was no hesitation from Martin as he immediately took the Texas Tech cap and placed it firmly on his head.
“They really just rolled out the red carpet for me and my family,” Martin said. “They made us feel at home, and that was our last (official visit), so we really loved it.”
Martin also gave Red Raider fans a hint of confidence when asked why they should be excited about him coming to Lubbock next year.
“They got the best corner in the Class of ’26, so who wouldn’t be excited,” he said.
On3 listed Martin as the No. 35 ranked cornerback in the nation and the No. 48 overall player in Texas. Last season, he broke up four passes and forced a fumble while recording 28 tackles. Martin also caught 18 passes on offense for 229 yards and two TDs.
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