Mike Vrabel and the New England Patriots invited 17 players to try out at their rookie minicamp in early May. One of them, Tyrell Martin, recently shared what it was like to try out for a roster spot with the six-time Super Bowl champions.
“I didn’t really have any prior connections with the Patriots before that, but once they contacted me, I was excited because it was an opportunity to showcase my skills, learn, and go compete,” Martin told Patriots On SI’s Ethan Hurwitz in an exclusive interview. “At the end of the day, all we ask God for is an opportunity. It’s an organization with a lot of history and a great coaching staff.”
The defensive tackle added:
“The weekend was a really good experience. It was a three-day camp.
“The first day was mostly travel, getting in, getting fitted for helmets and all the equipment, going through meetings, and having dinner with the team. Then the next two days were full camp days with practice, meetings, and walkthroughs.”
Martin didn’t sign a contract with the Patriots. But the experience could potentially lead to another NFL opportunity.
The defensive lineman could also be on New England’s short list of candidates to sign if a roster spot opens this summer.
Tyrell Martin Shares Rookie Minicamp Experience With Mike Vrabel, Patriots
Martin began his college career at Delaware State and then eventually transferred to Eastern Michigan. In four seasons playing for the MAC program, Martin posted 60 combined tackles, including six for loss. He also had one sack and one fumble recovery.
Despite that success, Hurwitz wrote that it was his strong Eastern Michigan Pro Day that led to Martin’s tryout with the Patriots.
Martin then showcased his abilities at the New England rookie minicamp.
“I wanted to show my explosiveness, effort, movement skills, and my ability to compete every rep,” said Martin. “Even though it wasn’t live football, as a defensive lineman you can still show how you move, how fast you get off the ball, and how you finish drills.
“I actually ended up playing defensive end during team periods because some guys were down, even though defensive tackle is my position.”
At minicamp, the Patriots also gave Martin an opportunity to take snaps along the edge.
Versatility is something Martin could eventually give an NFL roster. At Delaware State, the defensive lineman was also a member of the track and field team. That is a clear indication of Martin’s overall ability as an athlete.
Martin Waiting for Next NFL Opportunity
Obviously, the Patriots couldn’t sign all 17 tryout players. Only a select few were going to be roster additions.
After rookie minicamp, the Patriots signed edge rusher Xavier Holmes and safety Peter Manuma. They didn’t add Martin to the offseason roster.
While it would have been a great story for Martin to get an offseason opportunity with New England, the defensive lineman is focused on getting another chance in the league.
When it comes, Martin will be prepared.
“Right now it’s about continuing to work and staying ready,” Martin said. “I’m going to keep training, keep improving my body and technique, and stay prepared for whatever opportunity comes next. I feel confident in what I showed, so now it’s just about staying patient and ready when my next shot comes.”
Undrafted DT Reacts to Patriots Rookie Minicamp Tryout