2014 NFL mock draft: Dolphins select Zack Martin

With the 19th pick in Pride Of Detroit's 2014 NFL mock draft, the Miami Dolphins select Notre Dame offensive tackle/guard Zack Martin. Nate D. is serving as the Dolphins' general manager, and his reasoning for the pick is below.

Miami's pick here seems nearly destined to be. The team is desperately in need of a consistent starter on its offensive line after allowing a league- and franchise-worst 58 (!!!) sacks last year. Three starters from last year, Tyson Clabo, John Jerry and Richie Incognito, have departed, along with Jonathan Martin, who was traded to the 49ers after the well-documented controversy between him and Incognito.

Zack Martin is the definition of consistency -- he has never missed a game due to injury, he was the standout lineman on a BCS Championship team and his unit allowed only 8 sacks last year. Interestingly, he is also only the 18th player in Notre Dame history to be selected team captain a second time.

Martin is a squeaky-clean prospect who has consistently improved year to year and is trending upward with a high ceiling. I can see him assuming a leadership role quickly in a unit that is devoid of talent. His size will likely involve a move inside to guard, but he appears capable of playing tackle as well. This pick would give a breath of fresh air after an ugly 2013 season.

For better or worse, I'd compare him to Jeff Backus. Martin will likely hold down a guard or tackle position with a team for the next 10+ years and could potentially end up being a top-tier player.

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Check out the 2014 POD Community Mock Draft tracker for a look at all of the picks.