Brodric Martin, who has played only five games and logged 53 defensive snaps over two seasons with the Detroit Lions, finds himself at a critical crossroads in his NFL career.
The 2023 third-round draft pick was always seen as a project, but the pressure is mounting. Halfway through his rookie contract, Martin’s window to prove himself is shrinking rapidly.
Despite a challenging start, including a preseason knee injury that affected his momentum, Martin isn’t letting setbacks define him. Instead, he’s focused on embracing his journey and gearing up for a crucial offseason. “I wouldn’t say frustrated. I’m not frustrated,” Martin explained during locker room cleanout day. “It’s hard for me to, came in, I was good, then I got hurt, and that was hard for me. But that was a blessing in disguise as I was able to get in shape, get my muscles and stuff, get stronger and more loose. It was a blessing for me. It just didn’t happen for me on the field. It’s cool.”
Reflecting on what he gained from sharing a locker room with veteran DJ Reader, Martin shared, “Everything.” He credited Reader with teaching him vital skills, from stance adjustments to blocking techniques. “He taught me a better stance. He taught me how to strike a block. Like, it’s just everything. He taught me how to leverage. He taught me a lot. It was a blessing to have him.”
Though Martin showed promise during training camp, an unfortunate knee injury sidelined him for much of the year. When he returned, he was limited to just two games and 25 defensive snaps. This was particularly concerning given the Lions’ defensive line struggles throughout the season, yet Martin couldn’t break into the rotation. Instead, the team relied on practice squad players to fill the gaps.
Looking ahead to next season, Martin remains confident but realistic. “I’m going to say I’m confident (about next year being the year to contribute),” he said. “But it’s going to go as God wants it to go. That’s all I’m saying. I’m going to put every step I can. I’m going to put faith in him, and I’m going to just work.”
Adding to the challenge, Martin will now work under his third defensive line coach in as many seasons. After his first season with John Scott Jr., and last year under Terrell Williams (who has since become the defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots), the Lions hired Kacy Rodgers as their new defensive line coach. Rodgers, known for his work with larger defensive linemen, spent the last few years developing Calijah Kancey in Tampa Bay, and he will now be tasked with helping Martin realize his potential.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 330 pounds, Martin has shown flashes of his raw power, notably during last year’s training camp when he overpowered All-Pro center Frank Ragnow. However, time is running out for Martin to deliver on his promise. The Lions desperately need more depth on their defensive line, and Martin’s development will be key to that.
In his year-end meeting with Williams, Martin received feedback on areas to focus on during the offseason. “I’m going into the offseason and just be better than I was, man,” Martin stated. “Each year, I want to be better than what I was.”
Reflecting on Williams’ advice, Martin continued, “He wants me to be more consistent. He wants me to be more aggressive. That’s what I’m going to do. I want to tone my body up more, and I want to get stronger. Just be better. That’s all I want to do — be better than what I was specifically last year.”
The clock is ticking for Martin, but with a clear focus and a revamped coaching staff, he has a chance to turn his potential into production.
