Packers: Look out for rookie linebacker Kamal Martin this season

Packers rookie linebacker Kamal Martin continues to make an impact at training camp.

With no preseason and less time than usual to impress at training camp, each player on the roster bubble needed to make the most of their opportunities at practice to have a shot at making the Green Bay Packers‘ 53-man roster.

Rookie inside linebacker Kamal Martin has been doing exactly that.

After just about every practice, one name that keeps coming up among reporters in attendance? Kamal Martin.

It was no different during Sunday’s practice. The Packers’ fifth-round pick continues to impress.

Martin also received praise from head coach Matt LaFleur following Sunday’s practice.

“He has shown that explosive ability,” LaFleur told reporters. “We’ve just got to make sure he continues to grow and learn, and know the details of what we’re asking him to do.”

Martin has done enough to make the 53-man roster, it would seem, but the question moving forward will be how big a role he plays on defense this season. Can Martin start alongside Christian Kirksey or will he begin his career as a backup?

LaFleur did add that Martin is a young player and needs to just continue to improve.

“I think Kamal’s got a high ceiling, but he’s a young player,” LaFleur said. “He’s gonna make mistakes, but he’s just got to continue to get better and better each and every day.”

It’s still early days and Martin will need to prove himself when the regular season begins, but he should have his roster spot secure, and that’s a big step with so much competition at the inside linebacker position.

Elgton Jenkins was the Packers’ biggest surprise last season, beginning with a strong summer and leading to a dominant rookie season. Can Martin be this year’s breakout star from the draft class?

Again, it’s too early to know, but Martin’s start to training camp is certainly encouraging.