One of the most appealing things about offensive lineman Zack Martin heading into the draft was his experience playing multiple positions during his time at Notre Dame.
The Cowboys found it appealing enough that they selected Martin with the 16th overall pick last week and it looks like his first stop on the offensive line will be at guard.
“People believe he can play center -- a lot of people argue he can play all five spots on the offensive line,” Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said, via the team’s website. “Initially we’ll give him a chance to work inside as an offensive guard and see how he holds up there.”
Nick Eatman of the team’s website suggests Martin will supplant Mackenzy Bernadeau at right guard with Ron Leary remaining at left guard and Bernadeau becoming a backup for all the interior spots. The future could bring a move to right tackle with Doug Free either moving on or kicking inside, but those decisions will wait until Martin shows what he can do at guard.
The Cowboys have used three first-round picks on offensive linemen the last four years, with left tackle Tyron Smith and center Travis Frederick coming to Dallas before Martin. If Martin’s transition to the NFL goes as well as things have gone with the other two, the Cowboys will have solidified the line for several years regardless of where Martin winds up playing.