Knights DB Martinez enters transfer portal

After two seasons, UCF defensive back Nikai Martinez, who starred at Apopka High School, is entering the transfer portal.

Martinez announced his decision in a social media post, stating, “It’s been an honor to play for my Hometown, and I want to thank Knight Nation for the opportunity.”

Tuesday was the first day of the 15-day spring portal window where players can declare their intentions to transfer.

The junior cornerback appeared in 27 games during the past two seasons, including starting all 13 games in 2023. He totaled 75 tackles with 3 tackles for loss, a sack, 6 passes defended and 3 interceptions.

Martinez finished last season ranked fifth on the team in tackles (54) and was tied with Demari Henderson for the team-high in interceptions (3).

The 5-foot-11, 170-pound Martinez was among a growing group of local players to sign with the program since Gus Malzahn’s arrival in 2021.

A 3-star recruit from Apopka, he helped guide the Blue Darters to a 12-2 record and an appearance in the state championship game in 2021. He was rated No. 17 in the Sentinel’s 2022 Central Florida Super60.

While Martinez’s departure is a blow for the Knights, the team still features starting cornerbacks Brandon Adams and Ja’Cari Henderson, along with safeties Braeden Marshall, Demari Henderson and Quadric Bullard.

The addition of transfers Antione Jackson (East Carolina), Deshawn Pace (Cincinnati) and Byron Threats (Cincinnati) and the emergence of freshmen Christian Peterson and Chasen Johnson should help ease the loss.