Who is Adrian Martinez? Breaking down the NY Jets preseason star and UFL MVP

NY Jets football officially returned on Saturday as the Jets took on the Washington Commanders in the team's preseason opener. And just like that, a new preseason hero was born.

Adrian Martinez may be listed as the fifth quarterback on the Jets' depth chart at the moment, but he stole the show on Saturday and did everything he could to climb up said depth chart.

The former UFL star finished the game completing 6-of-10 passes for 104 yards, leading the Jets on multiple scoring drives including the game-winner. Martinez added 24 yards on the ground and a pair of highlight-reel throws to steal the hearts of Jets fans watching on.

Martinez found fellow UFL standout Brandon Smith for a 37-yard gain with around nine minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, dropping a beautiful ball over the top of the defense into the hands of his diving receiver.

That wasn't even his most impressive play of the day, however. Martinez would find Smith again later in the fourth quarter, evading pressure, rolling to his right, and firing a strike to his receiver for a 33-yard pickup on the move.

Who is Adrian Martinez?

Martinez signed with the Jets just two weeks ago following an impressive season in the UFL in 2024. The former Nebraska quarterback was named the league's inaugural MVP after leading his Birmingham Stallions to a victory in the UFL Championship Game.

Not only did he impress as a passer, throwing for 1,748 yards, 15 touchdowns, and only three interceptions, but he led the entire UFL with 528 rushing yards on a ridiculous 9.7 yards per carry.

Martinez isn't some unknown quarterback, either. The 24-year-old was a highly regarded four-star recruit who became the first true freshman quarterback to start opening day in Nebraska history.

He was hailed as the savior of Nebraska football and looked the part in his first season. Unfortunately, dysfunction with the program and his own inconsistencies meant that he never lived up to his potential in Lincoln.

Martinez would transfer to Kansas State for his final season of eligibility in 2022 before joining the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent the following spring. His stint in the UFL would rejuvenate his football career after he failed to stick around with the Lions that summer.

Now, Martinez has been given another opportunity to earn a role with the Jets. He's competing with undrafted rookie Andrew Peasley for the team's temporary QB3 job until rookie Jordan Travis returns. A spot on the practice squad is likely up for grabs.

Martinez may have begun the preseason behind Peasley on the depth chart, primarily due to his short time with the team, but that might be set to change after his performance on Saturday.

Jets fans are well aware of who Adrian Martinez is now after what he did in the team's preseason opener. Here's to hoping he continues to impress this summer.

More NY Jets news and analysis: