2013 NFL Draft results: Lions pick Sam Martin

The Detroit Lions have done it! They drafted a punter with the 165th overall pick of the 2013 NFL Draft. Specifically, they drafted Appalachian State punter Sam Martin, who visited the Lions a couple weeks ago. Martin is also a kickoff specialist.

At Appalachian State, Martin was a four-year starter at punter. Here's a rundown of his numbers:

2012: 60 punts, 45.9 avg. (long of 68)
2011: 54 punts, 40.7 avg. (long of 69)
2010: 60 punts, 39.2 avg. (long of 63)
2009: 52 punts, 40.0 avg. (long of 74)

The Lions came into this draft in need of a new punter after having some massive struggles at the position the last few years. It remains to be seen if Martin will be the answer to their problems at this position, but you don't draft a punter in the fifth round if you're not confident in him. The Lions attended his pro day and, as mentioned, brought him in for a visit, so they're very familiar with him.

By the way, this is the first time the Lions have drafted a punter since they took Mike Saxon in the 11th round of the 1984 draft.

More from POD:

• A study on punters and the NFL Draft

• Track the Lions' picks in our draft StoryStream

• Updated list of Lions' needs

• Best available players on Day 3 for Lions

• Follow all of the Lions' draft news