Former Mountaineer Kerry Martin Offers Appreciation for Time at WVU

Former Mountaineer Kerry Martin shares gratitude about his experience at WVU as he wraps up his college career.

In response to an earlier story from WV Sports Now about Martin including West Virginia as part of his announcement while declaring for the NFL Draft, the Charleston, W.Va. native offered appreciation for his time as a Mountaineer despite his controversial departure.

Praise be to God I was still given the opportunity to represent my home state, work towards a degree and showcase myself as an athlete. WVU was apart of my journey and helped mold me. I still appreciate everything that was done for me by the staff during my time at WVU. https://t.co/naL6aVvBHx

— Kerry “KJ” Martin Jr. (@_thekerrymartin) December 30, 2024

“Praise be to God, I was still given the opportunity to represent my home state, work towards a degree and showcase myself as an athlete. WVU was apart of my journey and helped mold me. I still appreciate everything that was done for me by the staff during my time at WVU,” said Martin on X (formerly Twitter).

Kerry Martin Declares for NFL Draft, Includes WVU in Announcement Despite Controversial Exit

Martin left WVU officially in October of 2021 after accusing former West Virginia defensive coordinator Vic Koenning of mistreatment and racism. In June, months before his eventual exit from the program, Martin detailed several examples of what he felt was inappropriate behavior by Koenning.

One of those examples is described below:

“Coach Vic tells us about the conversation he had with his son about the rioting and protesting and his exact words were, ‘If people did not want to get tear gassed, or push back by the police, then they shouldn’t be outside protesting’.” said Martin.

During his two years at WVU, Martin recorded 53 total tackles, highlighted by 50 in 2020. He also deflected five passes. After leaving West Virginia, Martin spent two seasons at Akron, where he made 53 tackles in 2022 and 45 in 2023. He then transferred to North Carolina State and played sparingly in 2024.

WV Sports Now covered the accusations made by Kerry Martin extensively.