Scouting Report: Center, Nick Martin
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As a three-year starter for the Fighting Irish, Nick Martin boasts impressive leadership, intelligence and toughness that general managers and offensive line coaches covet at the center position. Martin, a two time team captain, made all the protection calls and consistently put his unit in the best position to pick up stunts and blitzes. Martin also offers position versatility with starting experience at both guard positions.
Nick Martin | Center, Notre Dame
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Measurements
Height – 6′ 4″
Weight – 300 lbs.
Year – Senior.
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At First Glance
Notre Dame Offensive Lineman Of The Year.
Rimington Trophy Watch List.
Lombardi Trophy Watch List.
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Projected Round:
2nd Round
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Pros
Solidly built with great functional strength for the position.
Wins at the point of attach with power, awareness and technique.
High football IQ with mature leadership traits.
Two time team captain and the unquestionable anchor of the middle of the Irish offensive line.
Versatile with starting experience at center and guard.
Competitive motor who will consistently finish blocks.
Plays with a mean streak.
Quick set-up with active feet. Great punch and use of hands.
Strong anchor in pass protection.
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Cons
Not a rangy player or explosive athlete.
Limited lateral movement ability in pulling situations.
Average arm length.
Needs to work on consistent bend, balance, and leverage. Too often caught lunging.
MCL tear in 2013 that has limited some of his natural bend and athleticism.
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NFL Player Comparison:
Alex Mack, Cleveland Browns
Like Mack, Martin is not a highly athletic player but should non-the-less have a successful NFL career with his functional strength and technique sound ability.
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The Vikings Slant
Vikings fit? Yes
Will center John Sullivan be able to participate in the upcoming Vikings spring workouts after missing the entire 2015 season from two back surgeries?
[quote_box_center]“We’re hoping. We’ve seen him in the weight room the last week or so. He’s moving a lot better. He looks a lot better. His body mass is changing. He’s getting stronger. But who knows? Until you start pushing on 350-pound men, you really don’t know because it’s different than being in the weight room.” Mike Zimmer answered.[/quote_box_center]
Maybe it’s just me, but Zimmer’s response at a recent NFL owner meeting wasn’t convincing enough. The words “hoping” and “who knows” makes me feel like maybe it’s time to consider drafting a quality young center.
If you like John Sullivan, you should also like fellow Notre Dame alum Nick Martin. Martin is ranked as the second best center in the draft and the Vikings might be in the right spot to select him with the 54th pick.
Martin has low bust potential as he looks to continue in his older brother’s footsteps. Zach Martin also graduated from Notre Dame and was drafted in the first-round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2014. Zach is enjoying early success in the NFL as a two-time Pro Bowl guard.[/vc_column_text]