When it comes to drafting linebackers, the 49ers have a type. They like smaller linebackers, guys who would have been strong safeties 20 years ago. Players who are shorter than 6'0" and lighter than 230 pounds.

Martin exploded onto the scene as a redshirt sophomore in 2023, leading OSU with 140 tackles, the most by a Cowboy in 40 years. He had 16.0 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks and two interceptions. In five games last season,

SANTA CLARA — The 49ers moved to the second level of defense with their third pick of the 2025 NFL Draft Friday with the selection of linebacker Nick Martin of Oklahoma State. Martin was selected in the third round with the No. 75 pick overall.