Langston College defensive again Travis Martin has earned an invite to the Seattle Seahawks’ NFL rookie mini-camp. A major achievement for each the athlete and the traditionally Black school and college (HBCU) soccer neighborhood.
Langston College, positioned in Oklahoma, is the one HBCU within the state and competes within the NAIA’s Sooner Athletic Convention. The Lions have maintained a aggressive soccer program. Contending for convention titles and producing standout athletes who achieve consideration past the NAIA degree.
Travis Martin’s efficiency at Langston has been noteworthy. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 213 kilos, Martin showcased his athleticism and flexibility all through his collegiate profession. In his senior season, Martin tallied 27 complete tackles with 21 solo, three tackles for loss, 4 cross breakups, and two interceptions. He earned himself a spot on the All-SAC First Crew. Over his profession, he performed in 31 video games at Langston. Totalling 69 tackles (47 solo), 10 interceptions, and 23 cross breakups. His invitation to the Seahawks’ mini-camp not solely underscores his affect on the sector but additionally reveals that NFL scouts will discover expertise wherever, even on the NAIA degree.
HBCU Legacy Bowl
Martin’s participation within the 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl allowed scouts to work together with and scout Martin on a private degree. The occasion, held at Tulane College’s Yulman Stadium, featured prime draft-eligible prospects in HBCU soccer. Martin’s inclusion on this distinctive showcase signifies his standing among the many elite HBCU gamers. The Legacy Bowl, in partnership with the NFL, goals to present HBCU athletes elevated visibility. Guaranteeing that abilities like Martin obtain the popularity they deserve.
The Seattle Seahawks’ determination to ask Martin to their rookie minicamp displays a broader pattern amongst NFL groups. One which sees HBCU soccer gamers getting UDFA or minicamp offers as an alternative of being drafted by the NFL. Regardless of the challenges HBCU athletes face, together with restricted publicity and sources, many have efficiently transitioned to skilled soccer. Notable examples embrace Xavier Smith from FAMU. The vast receiver signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2023. Keenan Isaac from Alabama State joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a UDFA the identical yr. These gamers have demonstrated that HBCU athletes can compete on the highest ranges {of professional} soccer.
Making the Crew
The Seahawks’ 2025 draft technique targeted closely on offense, deciding on 9 offensive gamers and solely two defensive gamers. This emphasis means that undrafted defensive gamers like Martin could have elevated alternatives to make an affect throughout mini-camps and doubtlessly safe a spot on the roster. Seattle’s dedication to constructing a aggressive, championship-caliber staff with a growth-oriented setting may present the right setting for Martin to showcase his skills and earn a spot within the NFL.
Lately, a number of NAIA alumni have made their mark within the NFL. As an illustration, Damon Harrison, who performed at William Penn College, signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent and went on to take pleasure in a profitable profession as a defensive deal with. Different notable NAIA gamers who reached the NFL embrace Patrick Crayton (Northwestern Oklahoma State), Derrick Ward (Ottawa College), and Tyronne Gross (Japanese Oregon College).
Martin’s journey from Langston College to the Seattle Seahawks’ mini-camp underscores the significance of HBCUs in creating proficient athletes and the rising recognition of those packages by skilled leagues. As extra HBCU gamers obtain alternatives to show themselves, the legacy and affect of those establishments proceed to develop throughout the American soccer panorama.
