Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson and center Nick Martin are extremely close, and not only because of the importance of communication and the center-quarterback exchange.
As the only two players on the offense that touch the football every play, communication and rapport between them is pivotal.
"Nick is like a brother to me," Martin said. "As he goes, I go."
The two veteran starters frequently go out to dinner and talk about life and football.
Now that Martin is playing under a new contract, a three-year, $33 million deal that includes $18.351 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $11 million, the former Notre Dame standout picks up the tab.