The Detroit Lions are facing significant changes on their coaching staff this offseason, with several key assistants departing. Among the departures is defensive line coach Terrell Williams, who is leaving to become the New England Patriots’ defensive coordinator. However, there is one Lions player who should be sent packing alongside Williams – defensive tackle Brodric Martin.
Martin, a third-round pick in 2023, has struggled to make an impact on the field. Despite the Lions’ defensive line dealing with injuries, Martin has failed to capitalize on the opportunity, playing just 16% of snaps in his rookie season and only marginally improving to 21% this year. His overall performance has been underwhelming, with just one tackle and a dismal 186th out of 219 qualified interior defensive linemen ranking from Pro Football Focus.
The Lions’ general manager, Brad Holmes, has a reputation for finding excellent value in the draft, but it appears that Martin may have been a failed selection. With players like Levi Onwuzurike and DJ Reader demonstrating better production, the Lions cannot afford to be patient with Martin’s development. The team needs a long-term solution on the defensive line, and Martin has not shown enough promise to warrant their trust.
A fresh start elsewhere may be the best option for both Martin and the Lions. A team like the Patriots, who are facing a rebuild, could be a suitable landing spot, with head coach Mike Vrabel potentially able to get the best out of the struggling defensive tackle.
Ultimately, it is clear that Martin’s future should not be in Detroit. The Lions need to make tough decisions this offseason, and parting ways with the underperforming defensive tackle should be one of them.
