Plugging the Gaps: IDP Waiver Wire for Week 9
Blake Martinez, Inside Linebacker
The sub-package linebacker spot always gets it rough. They play limited snaps, often come onto the field in some of the most crucial moments in the game (third downs and key passing downs), and only in rare circumstances do they get a sniff of true glory. They have to grind and work to make the most of their fewer chances. I want to appreciate Green Bay Packers linebacker Blake Martinez today, because he is going to grind his way into your fantasy lineups in Week 9.
Martinez is compelling this week, though, because of the prolific passing attack of the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have a 1.81 pass-to-run play call ratio -- the fifth-highest in the league -- which means that Martinez will see plenty of playing time in Week 9. This will help to buoy his fantasy value, as his 16% tackle rate ranks sixth among linebackers, putting him at a per-snap value similar to 2016 fantasy studs Bobby Wagner and Benardrick McKinney.
Martinez is available in 98.5% of ESPN IDP leagues. We project him for 5.18 tackles, 0.00 sacks, 0.32 passes defended, and a total score of 6.14 fantasy points in Week 9.
