The Pigskin Award was created back in 1995 to recognize excellence on the high school gridiron here in Rutherford County. The list of past recipients reads like a who’s who in local high school football. Names like Luke Powell, Sonny Gray, Itavius Mathers, Jack Jones, and Arion Carter highlight the players while coaching legends like Philip Shadowens, Matt Williams, and Kevin Creasy are also on the list of those who have earned some ‘Skin. The 2025 season saw many highlights, but there was a young man who exemplified the essence of this award. The envelope please…

  The winner of this year’s Pigskin Award is Smyrna high school’s Jerry Martin III. Playing with a passion, this Bulldog was a dominating force from his defensive tackle spot. For the third consecutive season he earned all-region honors and this year was named defensive lineman of the year in the class 6A Rutherford County region. Martin tallied 68 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, forced three fumbles, blocked two field goals and a punt all while being double and triple teamed by blockers. Selected to play in the East-West high school all-star game, Martin impressed there as well as he was named defensive MVP.

  The on-field presence saw Martin stand as tall as any Bulldog in recent memory. The greatest thing about this dedicated young man, however, might be his performance off the field.

  “Jerry Martin might be the best leader we have had since I have been at Smyrna”, says Bulldog head coach Matt Williams, who became head coach in 2008. “His legacy at Smyrna will have many layers. Not only has he been one of the best and most physical guys we have had on the field, he has been a leader in the weight room and the hall ways. He is a special young man in a lot of ways and he has defined Bulldog since he has been here.”

  Hard work in the weight room and on the practice field were staples in the Martin success story. Statistics did not always speak of his impact as there are not numerical categories for inspiration and leadership.

  “The thing that I always try to place as most important is character”, says Martin. “I always want to represent and carry myself in a manner that exemplifies great character. It’s important to always try and be the right kind of person.”

  Now that his high school career is complete, Martin is headed to Murray State as an early enrollee. Eager to become a part of the Racer football program, this Smyrna standout took a moment to reflect on being recognized for his achievements as a Bulldog.

  “I am very proud to have worn the purple and gold for Smyrna”, says Martin. “Knowing that I am on the list of Pigskin Award winners with people like Coach Williams and Arion Carter is a great honor. Now it’s time to go to work at Murray State and continue playing the game I love.”