Chandler Martin has steadily climbed the ranks of NFL Draft boards in recent months, garnering significant attention for his productivity, athleticism, and versatility. The New Orleans Saints are reportedly among the NFL teams that have met with the Memphis linebacker ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, signaling their interest in bolstering depth and competition within their linebacker corps.
Martin’s collegiate journey is one of resilience and growth. Beginning at East Tennessee State, he quickly established himself as a key contributor before transferring to Memphis in search of higher competition. That decision paid off in a big way. Over two seasons with the Tigers, Martin became the heart of the defense, totaling over 200 tackles, 33 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks. He also proved effective in pass coverage with nine pass deflections and three interceptions. His impact on the field earned him consecutive First-Team All-AAC honors and the respect of coaches and scouts alike.
Despite a standout college career, Martin did not receive an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine, a decision that left many analysts puzzled. However, he made the most of his opportunity at Memphis’ Pro Day, delivering one of the most impressive workouts of any linebacker prospect in this draft cycle. Clocking a 4.55-second 40-yard dash, a 4.22-second shuttle, and a 6.85-second three-cone drill, Martin’s numbers would have placed him among the top performers at the Combine. His 37-inch vertical and 10-foot-6 broad jump only added to the buzz surrounding his name.
The Saints’ interest in Martin is hardly surprising. New Orleans has been looking to inject more youth and athleticism into its linebacker group, especially after seeing departures and depth concerns in recent years. While the Saints have relied heavily on Demario Davis and Pete Werner, they have lacked consistent depth behind them, and Martin could offer both immediate special teams value and long-term potential. His speed, lateral quickness, and coverage skills align well with the Saints’ defensive philosophy, which values versatility and the ability to defend modern, pass-heavy offenses.
Additionally, Martin’s leadership and football intelligence have stood out during interviews and meetings, according to sources close to several NFL teams. The Saints, who have often prioritized high-character players with strong work ethics, could view Martin as an ideal developmental piece with the potential to earn a larger role over time.
Projected as a Day 3 pick, Martin may not be a headline-grabber on draft night, but he represents the type of under-the-radar prospect who often outperforms his draft position. With multiple teams, including playoff contenders, expressing interest, his stock could continue to rise leading up to the draft. For the Saints, securing a player like Martin in the later rounds would be a strategic move aimed at building sustainable depth and future contributors on the defensive side of the ball.
As draft day approaches, Chandler Martin’s name will be one to watch. And if the meeting with New Orleans turns into a selection, it could mark the beginning of a fruitful relationship between a hungry prospect and a team looking to reinforce its defensive foundation.
