NFL Insider Says Raiders Signed Linebacker Blake Martinez
Oct 4, 2022, 11:56 AM
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 27: Quarterback Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens passes under pressure from inside linebacker Blake Martinez #54 of the New York Giants during the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 27, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
(Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
The Las Vegas Raiders are getting some help at the linebacker position.
According to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, Blake Martinez is signing with the Raiders. The move reunites Martinez with his former defensive coordinator in New York, Patrick Graham, who was with the team for two seasons before joining the Raiders.
A fourth-round pick in 2016 by the Green Bay Packers, Blake Martinez has started 76 games and racked up nearly 700 tackles. The veteran was cut by the New York Giants this past offseason after working his way back from tearing his ACL last season.
Breaking: Blake Martinez is signing with the #Raiders, per source.
Martinez has recorded four seasons w/at least 144 tackles to go along with 13 career sacks and 39 TFLs.
He now reunites w/former #Giants’ DC Patrick Graham — the two have a great relationship. 🏴☠️ https://t.co/IvkEUjfQ22 pic.twitter.com/BXWCiBeoAf
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) October 3, 2022
Graham was asked about the signing at Tuesday’s press conference, saying their relationship has grown since their days even in Green Bay.
“He’s one of the smartest guys I’ve ever been around,” Graham said. “He works extremely hard. He did a great job for me in terms of running the defense [in New York], echoing the message from the coaching staff. I just got a lot of respect for him. I’ve got a lot of respect as a player, but more importantly as a man.”
