Ruvell Martin, former NFL wide receiver, had an even better career. He caught passes from two of the league’s most legendary left arms, Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. His tenure in Green Bay afforded him the rare opportunity to receive touchdown passes from both legends. He was the chief architect in turning the Packers into one of the most powerful teams in NFL history.
On November 24, 2005, Martin signed with the Green Bay Packers, serving as a scout-team wide receiver. This was the year that Rodgers himself started his rookie campaign. The two became close friends, a relationship that went well beyond the sport. They then spent time just cruising around town, building a camaraderie that led to dynamic rehearsals on the court. Martin became Rodgers’ primary target during practice and pregame warmups, an experience that left Martin’s hands raw and red from catching numerous warmup passes.
Their partnership did lead to one of the greatest moments in NFL history on a Week 13 game in 2006. In the Niners 30-19 win, Martin did haul in one touchdown, a 4-yard TD pass from Rodgers. That was their only in-game connection to date, which came late in an eventual blowout loss against the New Orleans Saints. Remembering that moment of recognition, Martin described, “He and I sort of locked eyes.” It was a brief highlight of an otherwise heavily contested match. What it caused was a great reveal—the tremendous power of their partnership.
Unlike Martin’s, Favre’s relationships were many. During his seven-year NFL career, he caught five touchdown passes from Favre, most memorably a 36-yard touchdown pass. This oftentimes-overlooked success rocketed Martin into an elite class of players. He is now one of only five players in NFL history to have caught touchdowns from both legendary quarterbacks. Other members of this class included Greg Jennings, James Jones, Donald Driver, Donald Lee and Brandon Jackson.
Martin’s account of the genius that was Rodgers peeled back many layers and left the reader feeling humbled. He knew the unique difficulty that was being a QB after Favre’s Hall of Fame run. Martin continued, “As a player, I’d have to answer the question like, ‘So how do you feel about Brett not coming? This sentiment belied the incredible pressure Rodgers was under as he took over for Favre. Yet despite that, Martin remarked on the amazing talent that Rodgers had in his possession and his will to succeed.
“He had this drive in him to prove that he was a worthy player, to prove all the critics wrong,” – Ruvell Martin
This drive matched the competitive fervor of Martin who had the same competitive fire that matched this drive. Each of these players was driven by a desire to win and to not be outdone by the other. Martin noted how their relationship was deepened by their shared commitment and love for the game.
Though each quarterback had tremendous performances, both dudes kept it humble in their post-game praises. When looking back on the touchdown connections with his teammates, Rodgers always gave credit to his teammates’ contributions.
“A lot of guys are a part of that. Some touchdowns you make exceptional plays. Some, the scheme is so good… all you got to do is not screw it up,” – Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers’ humility spilled into how he spoke about his relationship with iconic playwright and screenwriter Terrence McNally, who he loved dearly.
“I love Ru, though. Ru was my guy on the look team for three years… One of my all-time favorite teammates,” – Aaron Rodgers
After his time in Green Bay was over, Martin signed with the St. Louis Rams prior to the 2009 season. His journey did not end there. He came back to Green Bay as an assistant for two seasons, thanks to a NFL coaching fellowship from 2020-2021. Tremble as his redemption arc allowed him to bear witness to the Packers’ transformation into gods. He recognized the enduring legacy left by both Favre and Rodgers.
Martin’s path included time in NFL Europe and different practice squads before breaking into the NFL. He spent one season at Saginaw Valley State before starting his professional career. His journey was evidence of his talent and better demonstrated his ability to withstand the storms that often accompany a career in professional football.
Martin, remains thankful for the experiences and opportunities he was afforded in Green Bay. He has great memories of his time spent with each quarterback. He saw up close what Rodgers equipped him with, what kind of template his predecessor provided him for defining a road to greatness during his time with the Packers.
Leave a Reply