49ers Sign UFL MVP Adrian Martinez as Specialized Practice Quarterback
In a strategic move that showcases the methodical planning behind successful NFL franchises, the San Francisco 49ers have added former UFL MVP Adrian Martinez to their quarterback room. While Brock Purdy’s position as the starter is firmly secured following his lucrative contract extension, and former first-round pick Mac Jones serves as the primary backup, Martinez’s signing reveals a thoughtful approach to practice preparation that often goes unnoticed by casual fans.
Martinez, who spent part of 2024 on the New York Jets’ practice squad before being waived, brings a unique skill set that complements the 49ers’ existing quarterback room. Unlike Purdy and Jones, who are more traditional pocket passers, Martinez offers exceptional mobility that made him a dual-threat star during his college career split between Nebraska and Kansas State. His collegiate statistics tell the story: nearly 3,000 rushing yards and an impressive 45 rushing touchdowns across five NCAA seasons. This mobility earned him MVP honors in the UFL and now provides the 49ers with a valuable practice tool.
According to Grant Cohn of On SI, the 49ers’ plan for Martinez is specifically tailored to help their defense prepare for mobile quarterbacks they’ll face throughout the season. “The 49ers most likely signed Martinez to give their defense a different look when they face the scout team offense during the week,” Cohn explained. “Martinez is the 49ers’ most mobile quarterback… He’s the opposite of Mac Jones, who’s a pocket passer.” This specialized role highlights how NFL teams are increasingly focusing on nuanced preparation methods that simulate specific opponent threats during practice sessions.
The timing of Martinez’s signing appears particularly strategic as the 49ers prepare to face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1. While Sam Darnold is expected to start for Seattle, they also have rookie mobile quarterback Jalen Milroe, who could see situational playing time to exploit his running abilities. Having Martinez mimic Milroe’s style during practice gives the 49ers defense valuable experience against that specific threat before facing it in a game situation. This preparation allows defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to develop and test specialized containment strategies tailored to mobile quarterbacks.
This addition illustrates how NFL rosters are increasingly built with practice preparation in mind, not just game day depth. While Martinez may never take a meaningful snap in a 49ers regular season game, his contribution to team success could be significant through his scout team work. The move also demonstrates how NFL teams value quarterbacks with diverse skill sets, even in supporting roles, as the league continues to see a rise in mobile quarterbacks who can threaten defenses with both their arms and legs.
For the 49ers, who have come agonizingly close to Super Bowl victories in recent years, these small details in preparation could make the difference in crucial matchups. The Martinez signing may seem minor compared to headline-grabbing transactions, but it reveals the thoughtful, comprehensive approach that head coach Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers management take toward building a complete team. By having a specialized practice quarterback who can simulate specific opponents, the 49ers defense gains valuable experience that could prove decisive in key moments of the upcoming season.
