Saints host private workout with Oklahoma State LB Nick Martin

By Ross Jackson

Linebacker is considered a sneaky need for the New Orleans Saints this offseason. Without much starting experience on the roster behind starters Demario Davis and Pete Werner, adding to the position makes a lot of sense. Even if that addition comes from the NFL Draft. Doing so won’t add starting experience in the NFL to the roster, but it certainly helps to bolster the all-around depth.

Clearly the Saints have the position locked in their sights. Per KPRC’s Aaron Wilson, the Saints were among teams to hold a private workout with Oklahoma State linebacker Nickolas Martin.

Oklahoma State @CowboyFB first-team All-Big 12 linebacker Nick Martin (Texarkana native, 4.53 speed, second at combine for position, 26 reps, 38 vertical, 10-3 broad jump) visits with #Browns #Patriots #Bears and #Saints private workout. Had 140 tackles, six sacks, two…

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 21, 2025

Matin is a bit undersized by typical linebacker standards, measuring in during this year’s NFL Scouting Combine at just 5-foot-11 and 221 pounds. But the athleticism of the player still jumps off of the screen. 

2024 Combine Results:

• 40-yard-dash: 4.53 (second at the position)
• Vertical: 38 inches
• Broad jump: 10-foot-3
• Bench: 26 reps
• RAS: 8.51u

While the Saints could be looking at Martin as a potential late-round investment or priority free agent at his designated position of linebacker, safety should be in consideration with that kind of athleticism, as well. 

In either case, he could be a perfect fit for the team’s special teams unit. His ability to get downhill in a hurry as a blitzer and in the run game on tape is typically a trait that translates well when it comes to kick and punt coverage. He has special teams experience during his early days at Oklahoma State and was elevated to Team Captain status in 2023, a classification the Saints hold in high regard.

One of the big questions for Martin will be his health. He missed seven games in 2024 with a knee injury. In his last full season, he was highly productive and a true weapon for the Cowboys.

2023 Stats:

• 140 total tackles (led Big 12 in solo and combined tackles)
• 16 tackles for a loss (led team)
• 6 sacks
• 2 interceptions
• 1 fumble forced
• 1 fumble recovered