Former Lions QB Takes a Major Gamble on His Future This Offseason

Adrian Martinez’s time with the Detroit Lions was brief, but he maximized his opportunity in the UFL, emerging as the league’s top quarterback.

The reigning UFL MVP decided against returning to the spring football league, instead securing a deal with an NFL team in hopes of earning a backup role.

Martinez had a standout 2024 season with the Birmingham Stallions, leading them to a dominant 25-0 victory over the San Antonio Brahmas in the first-ever United Football League Championship. The UFL resulted from a merger between the XFL and USFL, consolidating the talent pool.

After earning MVP honors for both the championship game and the league, Martinez opted 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 to pursue an NFL roster spot rather than remain a starter in the UFL. This year, he’ll have an advantage by participating in an entire offseason program with the Jets instead of a limited stint.

Martinez entered the NFL as an undrafted rookie with the Lions in 2023, competing for the third-string quarterback role. Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire highlighted his NFL-ready skills, particularly his ability to make plays both as a passer and runner.

“Martinez is a dangerous runner,” Risdon wrote. “He accelerates quickly, has natural elusiveness, power, and vision. However, once he takes off, he’s not a threat to pass. His 4.55-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine is legitimate and translates well on the field. The 23-year-old rushed for over 500 yards in all five college seasons.”

Martinez was cut by the Lions in the summer but found his way to the UFL. He told Fox Sports in May 2024 that joining the league was an intentional move to play under head coach Skip Holtz.

“I wanted to be a Stallion because Skip has a track record of success,” Martinez said. “He and Zach Potter, our GM, prioritize getting guys to the NFL, which is our ultimate goal. Everyone in the locker room shares that hunger—we’ve all had success, but we’re still chasing something bigger. That drive has fueled our chemistry and success.”

At the time, Martinez acknowledged his need for more development, emphasizing his desire to improve as a passer in the UFL before making another NFL push.

Now, he has an opening with the Jets, who made significant changes at quarterback by releasing Aaron Rodgers. The team brought in Justin Fields to compete with veteran Tyrod Taylor, giving Martinez a shot at securing a backup role or another practice squad spot.