The New York Giants and free-agent linebacker Blake Martinez have agreed to a three-year, $30 million deal.
After the Packers signed veteran linebacker Christian Kirksey, it became expected that Martinez would leave the team. The Giants have reportedly been interested in Martinez since the legal tampering period began on Monday.
Following a stellar career at Stanford University, the Green Bay Packers selected Martinez in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. The 6-2, 237-pound Martinez had been a starter throughout his whole career with the Packers. In his three seasons with the Packers, Martinez has recorded 512 tackles, 10 sacks, 17 pass breakups, and three interceptions.
The 26-year-old has also played in almost 98 percent of the defense’s snaps and led the NFL in combined tackles over the last three seasons with the Packers. In addition, Martinez has recorded 25 tackles for loss, 13 passes defended and 9.0 sacks.
This past season, Martinez led all linebackers with 114 solo tackles and one interception.
Despite lacking accolades to his resume, Martinez will be a tremendous boost to the Giants defense this upcoming season. He has been a highly productive player throughout his career and could provide a sense of leadership to the Giants locker room.
Nevertheless, the Giants have done a phenomenal job of revamping their defense this offseason. Recently, the Giants put the franchise tag on All-Pro defensive tackle Leonard Williams. It's clear that the Giants' top priority this offseason is to strengthen their defense. Even after the deal with Martinez, the Giants will still have plenty of salary-cap space.
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