Brodric Martin didn’t have the kind of rookie year he wanted in Detroit. Even though Martin was drafted with the knowledge he was a developmental project, playing just 28 total snaps in three games in 2023 was much more of a project than just about anyone anticipated for the third-round defensive tackle out of Western Kentucky.
Martin is hoping to accelerate his development as he enters his first NFL offseason. In an interview with Tim Twentyman of the Lions, the big DT revealed he’s working to emulate the big jump fellow lineman Alim McNeill made last offseason into the 2023 season.
McNeill altered his diet and his body, making himself sleeker and more explosive. It resulted in McNeill bagging five sacks and 30 QB hurries in 13 games — more than he had in his first two seasons combined. Martin takes inspiration from that progress, telling Twentyman,
“Going into Year 3 it was a huge transformation for him. Obviously made him a better player. So, it’s something I’m definitely going to hone in on and try to do.”
Even before his rookie season, Martin acknowledged his pad level and playing strength needed to improve. Getting in better physical shape can help him attain his goals. He played at over 330 pounds as a rookie. He revealed his biggest goal for 2024.
“Every week. Every week.” Martin stated. “Be an impact player.”
That would be a very welcome development for the Lions defensive tackle group. Outside of McNeill, it was an uninspiring group that produced next to nothing in the pass rush. Martin could become a bigger part of it in 2024 by becoming a little less big; at least, that’s his plan.