When the Washington Commanders hosted Illinois cornerback Jartavius “Quan” Martin for a visit recently, it was viewed as just one of the many the team held with draft-eligible prospects.
Martin was outstanding at Illinois but overshadowed by teammate Devon Witherspoon, who went No. 5 overall in the 2023 NFL draft to the Seattle Seahawks. However, the Commanders were quietly very impressed by Martin for multiple reasons.
Martin played multiple roles for the Fighting Illini, lining up at outside cornerback, in the slot, in the box and playing deep safety. That “position flex” made him an ideal target for the Commanders.
Martin didn’t play all over the place; he stood out at each position. As for his role with the Commanders, it appears he’ll begin his career inside, covering the slot.
Here are some of Martin’s impressive highlights from his time at Illinois.
Attention, @Commanders fans: Quan Martin (@JartaviusM_) is a big-time playmaker.
The former @IlliniFootball star goes No. 4⃣7⃣. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/06DoR81OF4
— Illinois on BTN (@IllinoisOnBTN) April 29, 2023
