Marcus Martin

USC, C/OG

Height: 6.3

Weight: 320

40yd: —

Age: 20

Stats Year G 2011 10 2012 12 2013 13

Pass Blocking: C

Quick into his set and has all the tools to be very good pass protector in the NFL. Agile mover for a guy his size and for how raw his technique is. Has the strength and anchor to occupy bull-rushers, but can be troubled by agile and athletic movers. Turns his body too much and can open up lanes for pass rushers.

Run Blocking: B-

Gets movement in the run game and can steer defenders to the outside and open up huge lanes for the ballcarrier. Has a lot of bulk and power for a pivot, using it to pave the way in the run game. Flashed the ability to move Louis Nix off the ball one-on-one. Has all the athleticism to be an effective move blocker but has yet to put that part of his game together. Inconsistent getting fits at the second level and on screens.

Technique: C

Strong hands, showing the ability to lock out and jolt linemen backwards. Gets too high as a blocker and needs to stay lower with better center of gravity, as he finds himself on the ground and getting shed laterally too often. Flaws are all correctible with coaching.

Intangibles: B-

Is not the prototypical nasty interior lineman, but will look to bury defenders on the goal-line. Lacks hustle to seek out contact and defenders. Occasionally has trouble identifying a man to block, but is smart and makes line calls. Only a one-year starter at center but has been a starter since his freshman year as a guard. Has the versatility to play both guards spots, albeit not at as high a level in the NFL. Very young and will be only 20 years old until midway through his rookie season.

Red Flags: None

Bottom Line: Possessing tons of potential, Martin is a bit of an unfinished product at this point, but that is to be expected for a 20-year-old who has only played center for one year at the college level. At this point, Martin appears to be the most talented pivot prospect in this year’s class and can continue to develop into one of the better centers in the NFL. More suited for a power-man scheme at this point, Martin can easily develop into a zone-blocker as well.

Comparison: Chris Spencer

Grade: 8.5 (2nd Round)

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