NASHVILLE – Veteran Jacob Martin is all about doing the right thing, even if it might sound wrong.
On Thursday, when asked about the mindset of the team's defensive line, Martin gave a blunt description of the task:
"We go in there and f%#k sh*t up," Martin said. "And the linebackers clean it up."
Sounds pretty clear cut, and intense, which is what Martin said the defense should be all about in 2026.
The 30-year-old Martin has done plenty right in his NFL career, which is now headed into year nine in Tennessee.
In eight seasons, the defensive end has played in 119 career games, with 29 starts, and he's tallied 134 tackles, 26.5 sacks, 181 quarterback pressures and 22 tackles for a loss while playing with the Seahawks, Texans, Jets, Broncos, Colts, Bears and Commanders.
Now in his first season in Tennessee, Martin is settling in and ready to create havoc.
"I am super thankful to be here, thankful for the opportunity," Martin said. "The team is great, guys are great. A lot of young talent in this building, and I am excited to be a part of this organization, exciting to grow, excited to build with these guys. The sky is the limit for sure."
So, how has Martin survived so long in the NFL?
"Truthfully, man, just being a pro," he said. "Showing up on time, doing what is asked of you. Doing the extra, the little things right on a consistent basis."
Martin is coming off the best season of his career with the Commanders, when he recorded 39 tackles, 5.5 sacks and 44 quarterback pressures.
In Tennessee, he'll be part of a defense looking to get after it with head coach Robert Saleh leading the charge, and some hungry veterans and eager youngsters around him.
Martin said he learned from the veterans on the Commanders last year to get better, and he plans to do the same here in Tennessee.
Martin wants the defensive line to set the tone with hard work, and intensity.
"This defense only goes as the d-line goes," he said. "It features the front, and it gives us the ability to do what we do best and that's get off the ball and create havoc. … Adopting that mentality allows defensive linemen to play more free, for sure."
