Center Nick Martin could be on Arizona Cardinals wish list
By Jim Koch
Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach/run game coordinator Sean Kugler had some interesting thoughts on the squad’s situation at center this past week. The experienced assistant, who joined the organization back in 2019, has let it be known that a change at the position could be in order. Kugler remarked that “the center position overall needs to take the next step and get better”, and there are fans of the Cardinals who may be in complete agreement with that assessment.
One way that the Cards could address that issue is through free agency. There are several interesting names who could be available when the signing period gets underway on March 17th. Actually, there’s one particular center who’s eligible to ink a deal with whatever franchise he chooses right now.
On February 26th, the Houston Texans cut ties with a veteran who had served as the anchor of the club’s offensive line for 62 games since 2017. Nick Martin, a second-round selection back in 2016, was apparently considered to be too expensive for the Texans to keep around. The move will leave $2.5 million in dead money, but will ultimately save Houston $6.25 million in salary-cap space.
Martin was chosen 50th-overall by the Texans back in ’16, after an outstanding college career at the University of Notre Dame. The 6’4, 295 pounder was a three-time First-team All-Independent center during his time with the Fighting Irish. Martin’s brother, Zach, is a six-time Pro Bowl guard with the Dallas Cowboys.
The 27-year old Martin’s time as an NFL offensive lineman did not get off to a great start. Ankle surgery cost the Indianapolis native his entire rookie campaign. Another ankle injury sidelined Martin for two additional contests back in ’17.
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Kugler stated this past Friday that Arizona’s current centers, Mason Cole and Lamont Gaillard, have “things that they need to improve upon”. The Cardinals could certainly use a blocker who would be an upgrade over both of those individuals. Coming to a contract agreement with the talented Martin could potentially be a solution for that problem.