Adrian Martinez’s quest to carve out a niche as an NFL quarterback will continue with the San Francisco 49ers.

San Francisco general manager John Lynch said Wednesday that the team signed Martinez, 25, to the practice squad after the New York Jets waived him.

Martinez, a dual-threat QB, completed 30 of 51 pass attempts for 352 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in the the preseason. He also rushed for 26 yards on three attempts.

The former Clovis West star brings value because of his versatility and ability to mimic dual-threat QBs for the 49ers defense in game preparations.

Adrian Martinez going to the 49ers is a very good move. #fttb #nyjets
Hopefully, develops in into a quality backup. Showed flashes! But you can’t keep everybody.. a new opportunity for him! pic.twitter.com/9Gf0NkThbQ

— coachkou (@coachkou) August 28, 2025

Martinez Earned UFL MVP Honors

He comes to the 49ers after being the United Football League’s MVP with the Birmingham Stallions in spring 2024. Martinez was on the Jets practice squad last season.

The 49ers have QBs Brock Purdy and backup Mac Jones on their 53-man roster. Martinez won’t suit up for regular-season games while on the practice squad.

With Birmingham, Martinez led the UFL with 528 rushing yards. He tied for second with 15 touchdown passes and was third with 1,749 passing yards.

Martinez went undrafted after playing a total of 49 games for Nebraska and Kansas State but signed in 2023 with the Detroit Lions.

His college numbers: 63.6% completions, 9,752 passing yards, 51 TDs, 31 interceptions. He added 2,928 yards on the ground and 45 rushing TDs.