The third player profile in our series centers on the best of South Bend in 2013. Zach Martin, former offensive lineman for the Fighting Irish, played multiple positions along the offensive line during his time in college. The team that takes him will certainly get a versatile player, but just because Martin played a position in college doesn’t mean he can excel at that same position in the NFL.
Zack Martin ranks 19th out of all the 2014 NFL draft prospects, according to NFL.com. He was named the top offensive lineman at Notre Dame four times (2010-13). No other player in school history has won that award more than twice. He played extensively at left tackle during his college career (50 of 52 starts) but projects to play right tackle in the NFL just as well.
He’s a closer look at the former offensive lineman from Notre Dame and how he might fit on the Ravens.
Zack Martin, Offensive Tackle, University of Notre Dame
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 308 pounds
- Bench reps of 225 pounds: 29
- Broad jump: 106″ (8’10”)
Pros: Martin has good punch and will lock onto the inside of the defenders’ pads while mirroring that defender’s footwork. He won’t give up on a play and will always look for someone else to block. His combination blocks are well executed. Not much surprises him and he plays with very good endurance. He initiates, sustains and finishes blocks. He doesn’t get blown off the ball often, if at all, and anchors well. His pass sets are as good as any other player in this draft.
Cons: Where the Ravens need him is at right tackle, and he doesn’t have much experience there (only two collegiate starts). He occasionally gets beaten by speed rushers. There’s also the fact that he weighs 308 pounds, which is a bit light by NFL standards. That lack of ideal size may cause him to be overwhelmed at the point of attack.
Why the Ravens would select him: Martin is a very good NFL prospect. He could likely start at right tackle in Week 1, provided he stays healthy throughout training camp. He also has the ability to play left tackle, which is always a plus, especially for an offensive line like Baltimore’s.
From his NFL.com profile: “Sparkling intangibles. Highly respected, hardworking leader who does all the right things. … One of the cleanest prospects in this year’s draft.”
Projected position with the Ravens: Right tackle. With this pick, from left to right, the Ravens starting offensive line would be: Monroe, Osemele, Zuttah, Yanda, Martin.
