Right off the bat, Martinson impressed me with his footwork – his quickness and agility. He comes off the ball with purpose in the running game and works well when getting to the second level. The junior works well in space, and his pass sets are also solid for his size. He has quick enough feet to stay with some of the best pass rushers in the state. Of course, with his size, once he gets his hands on guys, he can engulf smaller defenders. His upper body strength – as shown by his initial punch – is more than adequate. At worst, his punch stones defenders and often moves them noticeably backward.

Martinson brings his team a dynamic and impactful skill set at right tackle. His powerful initial punch is disruptive, setting the tone for plays and gaining control at the line of scrimmage. Martinson’s quickness out of his stance and solid footwork in his kick slide make him effective in both run blocking and pass protection, showcasing balance and control. His mauler style of play is evident in initiating contact and creating opportunities for impactful blocks and open running lanes. Martinson also stands out in pass protection with a solid counter against pass rushers, displaying adaptability and awareness. His mirroring technique is particularly significant, as he excels at neutralizing the speed and power of edge rushers, being able to counter any rush move.

OL5 and #25 on the 2025 overall rankings, Alexandria’s Joseph Martinson is a massive 6’4, 290 lb. OC and DT and can overwhelm opponents with his size, strength, and initial punch in both run and pass blocking settings. Comfortable and effective at working to the second level and able to drop his hips and set his feet to take out smaller defenders, Martinson also packs a punch as a down blocker and can finish and crumple defenders off only a couple steps once he’s engaged. Also has a solid pass set from the interior of the OL and stays square before setting his feet & base and absorbing contact or running the DL out of the play. His strength at the initial point of contact is noticeable and impressive and I like how he moves at the second level and in pass pro for a big guy.

Rose his stock from #36 to #25 overall!

The Alexandria Cardinals have a solid crop of ’25ers coming up on their roster and with the legacy and tradition of OL prospects manufactured in the Great State of Minnesota, you need to pay special attention to the young maulers and trench warfare specialists coming up in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Martinson, a 6’4, 290 lb. OC and DT, already has great size for an interior lineman and is a strong and natural finisher when blocking. He does a good job of keeping his hands on an opponents chest plate, has some initial pop, and can drive a defender into the turf and on his butt off a couple steps. Also looks mobile and comfortable when working to the second level and in pass pro. His force at the point of attack as a sophomore is a big reason for his stock rising and I’m quite keen to see how he develops and works this offseason. One of my roommates and college football teammates was an Alexandria grad, so as always, Go Cards!