Ex-Lions QB Makes a Big Bet on Himself This Offseason
Adrian Martinez had only a brief NFL stint with the Detroit Lions, but took full advantage of a new opportunity when he jumped to the UFL and became the league’s top quarterback.
Now, Martinez is making a big bet on himself.
The reigning UFL MVP opted not to return to the spring football league, instead signing with a new NFL team to compete for the shot at a backup job.
Adrian Martinez Starred in UFL
Martinez had a huge season for the Birmingham Stallions in 2024, leading the team to a 25-0 win over the San Antonio Brahmas in the inaugural United Football League championship. The UFL was the result of a merger between the XFL and USFL, with the new league pooling the talent into one body.
Martinez was named MVP of the title game and of the league for its inaugural season, but chose not to return in 2025. Instead, the former Nebraska and Kansas State quarterback signed a futures contract with the New York Jets.
Martinez spent the 2024 season on the Jets’ practice squad, and chose the risk of competing for an NFL roster spot over a starting position in the UFL. He could have a bigger advantage this season, getting to spend an entire offseason with the Jets rather than the more abbreviated stint last year.
Undrafted Rookie Showed Potential in Detroit
Martinez came into the NFL as an undrafted rookie with the Lions in 2023, competing for the No. 3 spot in training camp. Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire noted that Martinez had plenty of NFL-caliber skills, including an ability to attack defenses both through the air and on the ground.
“Martinez offers a lot of running ability,” Risdon wrote. “He accelerates quickly and has natural wiggle, power, and vision as a runner. He isn’t a threat to throw once he starts running, however. The 4.55 40-yard dash time at the NFL Scouting Combine is legit and translates to the field. The 23-year-old rushed for over 500 yards in all five of his college seasons.”