National Football League

Jim Tomsula told O-line that he will be 'the only fat guy in the room'

Published Jun. 22, 2015 1:23 p.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

foxsports

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula and offensive line coach Chris Foerster are putting an emphasis on slimming down this season. No longer are the days of heavy or overweight offensive linemen. Tomsula and Foerster want their player quicker and thinner.

Just ask offensive lineman Marcus Martin. Martin has already lost about 10 pounds this offseason, because it is a requirement of his head coach if he wants to see playing time.

“Oh, man, it’s a whole different mentality, a whole different level of fitness,” Martin said, via The San Francisco Chronicle. “Coming in coach Tomsula said he was going to be the only fat guy in the room. And that hit home. You had to get in shape and get right.”

Martin is fighting for the starting guard position that was left open when Mike Iupati signed with the Cardinals in free agency. He says the only way to earn a starting spot is to be in great shape.

“You have a coach (Foerster) that emphasizes being in shape, being able to run and being physical at the same time,” Martin said. “And being able to replicate that every single time. You’ve got to be in shape or you won’t have a job.”

Martin thinks the added strength and speed in his game, along with experience will help him finally reach his potential in his second NFL season. 

“I’m much stronger,” Martin said. “There’s a big difference between year one and year two. In year two, you find your place in this league. And I feel like that’s what I’ve been able to do. I’ve been getting a lot stronger and a lot faster.” 

(h/t San Francisco Chronicle)

share

Get more from National Football League Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more

in this topic

National Football League