NFL Draft Profiles: Offensive Tackles Edition
By Ben Nielsen
Jan 5, 2013; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive tackle Zach Martin (72) speaks to the media on media day for the 2013 BCS Championship game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
ZACH MARTIN
HEIGHT: 6-4 WEIGHT: 308 COLLEGE: Notre Dame
10 YARD SPLIT: n/a BENCH: 28 BROAD: 8’10”
Versatility seems to be a consistent theme amongst the linemen acquired by Dorsey. Of the tackles listed here none are as flexible as Martin. Martin can play both inside and outside, which could serve to solve the Chiefs immediate right guard issue and then future right tackle need when Stephenson hits free agency.
Reports from the Senior Bowl solidified the notion he has the technique and strength to handle the outside position even though he is undersized as an NFL tackle. It should be noted one of the comparisons given to him is Logan Mankins, one of the best offensive linemen in football.
It would be interesting to see if the Chiefs moved Martin to left guard and Jeff Allen to right guard if the Chiefs decided to select him. It would create some uncertainty given Fisher and Martin would potentially be the most inexperienced tandem on the left side of the line.
Here’s Rob Rang and Derek Stephens on Martin:
"Very good at keeping his feet underneath him while keeping his butt low to handle both speed and power. He does play with good quickness (but not explosiveness) off the snap, showing knee bend and core strength to anchor, as well as the lateral agility to mirror more athletic defenders. He also shows better athleticism than you might think when blocking on the move, demonstrating above average straight-line speed to get to the second level, as well as the nastiness to bury his target into the ground."
There are mock drafts that have Martin being selected in the first round. Rang’s draft has Martin going to Miami to play guard.