Martin really struggled at LB in several areas, he struggled with assignments and calls on the field. He also did not have the speed or hips to cover TE's or RB's which is a must for Bo's LB's.
DE is the right fit for him, but I don't know how much he will contribute this year.
Good points there, jliehr.
That was my initial reaction too sheepdogmark, that being concern over our depth at LB. Martin brings the wood though, of that there is no doubt. So if he can't find the field at LB move him around and find a spot for him. Maybe he can be a "spinner" or whatever...although Meredith looked pretty strong there. And I don't know if that is a position of permanence anyway, or just a fleeting wrinkle we threw out there.
Perhaps the coaching staff makes this move with one eye on potential DE recruits for '11? Maybe there is not a ton of confidence in who they can land come February? I actually don't really think that has much to do with this decision, just a speculatory thought.
Ekeler also said that Martin is up to 246 and still climbing.
Lavonte David is at 220 today, expect him to get to 230 in the offseason.
David should easily be able to put on 10 pounds in the offseason, hell I'll put on 10 pounds this weekend coming back for the NU/KU game. Gotta get my fix of Runza and Valentino's and I'll probably mix in a beer or 12.