Blake Martinez brings 'warrior mentality' to Packers' defense

Second-year linebacker leading Green Bay in tackles through four games

A gym rat known for his tireless study habits, the Packers linebacker was pulling teammates together to watch film and dive into the playbook as soon as he walked in the building as a rookie last year.

He was speaking Daniels’ language.

“I’ve always liked his approach,’” said Daniels, now in his sixth NFL season. “He’s a guy that comes in to me and says, ‘Hey, Mike, let’s go watch film together.’ He definitely understands the role of being a middle linebacker in the defense and what it takes to be a leader.”

Now in his second NFL season, Martinez is beginning to see the fruits of his labor. While the Packers often use a…