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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Doug Martin Projected As 1st Round Pick By Sporting News' Russ Lande

Boise St. Broncos running back Doug Martin is looking to impress scout at the upcoming Senior Bowl so that he can improve his 2012 NFL Draft stock. He's already been ranked as the No. 5 offensive prospect at the game by one analyst, but mere lists don't offer much help. So, he'll do that on the field. But is Martin already worthy of being a first-round draft pick? The Sporting News' Russ Lande has been on that bandwagon for several weeks and he still predicts the Cincinnati Bengals to take Martin with the 21st overall pick in the draft.

Related: Updated 2012 NFL Draft Order

Lande foresees the Bengals not wanting to give out a big contract to Cedric Benson, letting him walk as a free agent. Martin would then be able to take over the job. Lande describes Martin as a "strong, explosive" runner.

At this point, it's hard to say how many running backs will be drafted in the first round. Alabama's Trent Richardson appears to be the only one with a solid first-round pedigree. Height concerns will play a part in where the 5-foot-9 Martin will be drafted, but it likely won't be the overriding issue.

For in-depth coverage of the Broncos, visit Boise State blog One Bronco Nation Under God. For more on the NFL, be sure to check out SB Nation NFL and Mocking the Draft.