Nick Martin stands out in recent drills for decisive, fast reads and a killer closing sprint to the ball. He demonstrates the ability to fill quickly, diagnose runs, and pop the ball out, signaling a notable rise in Week 1 and beyond as a Will backer behind Warner. His speed and awareness give fantasy managers a potential late-round add with upside if the injury situation in SF forces more reps his way.

Martin’s standout late-game performance vaulted him into the 49ers’ linebacker depth conversation, with eight tackles, six solo, and a forced fumble. His performance suggests a meaningful rise in depth chart perception, especially as the team weighs situational packages and injury risk across the front seven.

Martin anchored the linebacking unit with eight tackles, a tackle for loss, and a forced fumble that sparked SF’s second TD. He also flashed on special teams with a crucial fourth-quarter tackle on a kick return, signaling a possible rotational role as SF pares down to 53.

Martin’s athleticism was never in question; his instincts and effort this week finally matched. He logged six tackles, a sack, two TFLs, and even a crucial pass breakup, flashing the kind of game-changing playmaking that SF’s defense craves to complement Dee Winters and Lenoir.

Martin’s night was defined by missed tackles and lack of consistent impact on the run game. A third-round pick who flashed potential but needs to translate practice-style dominance to live reps, especially as Denver exploited mismatches.