Houston Texans draft series: Center Nick Martin

Our draft series continues as we look at offensive linemen the Houston Texans could look at, including Notre Dame’s center, Nick Martin

Today in our draft series we look at how Notre Dame center Nick Martin could fit with the Houston Texans. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because just a couple of seasons ago Martin’s brother, Zack Martin, was a first round pick of the Dallas Cowboys. The younger Martin comes from the same bloodlines, as well as the same school, but will he have the same impact in the NFL?

Vitals

Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 299 pounds
Arm length: 32 1/2″
Hands: 9 3/4″

Strengths

Nick Martin enters the NFL Draft with an incredibly high football IQ that NFL coaches will be excited about. He was a starter for the past three seasons and was a two-year captain for the Irish as well. He also has experience all along the line, but really excelled as the center where he dissected defenses and made all the calls at the line.

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The senior also allowed himself to be coached up very well throughout his college career, but what really stands out is his ability to finish plays with his strength. Much like his brother, Nick is willing to do the dirty work to get the job done.

Weaknesses

While Martin didn’t miss time, he did have a rough knee injury back in 2013 which could have some scouts worried. He also is slightly underweight, and his arm length is a concern. Still, the weaknesses are vastly overshadowed by the strengths Martin has.

Verdict

So should the Houston Texans use a draft pick on center Nick Martin? The answer is yes, but not a first round pick. After losing starting centers in back-to-back seasons, using a second round pick on Martin would make a ton of sense. Center is one of the most underrated positions in the NFL and getting a guy like Martin, who could start right away, would solve the spot for the foreseeable future.

Next: Texans draft series: WR Sterling Shepard

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