Jets QB Adrian Martinez headlines UFL players who could make NFL rosters

Eric Williams

NFL Reporter

One of the stated goals of the UFL is to help players achieve their dream of making it to the highest level of football.

Heading into the final week of preseason games, a number of UFL players are on the bubble to make NFL teams. Traditionally, the final exhibition game is one last chance for players at the back end of rosters to prove they belong.

NFL teams have to pare down to 53-man rosters by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. Each team also can keep 16 players on the practice squad, another opportunity for UFL players to catch on to one of 32 NFL teams.

Sixty UFL players signed NFL contracts during the offseason and training camp. Of those, 57 remain fighting for NFL jobs. 

In 2023, the XFL and USFL combined for 111 players who signed with NFL teams for training camps, with 35 sticking on active player rosters or practice squads. 

Here are five top UFL players in the hunt to earn NFL jobs heading into the final week of preseason games. 

QB Adrian Martinez, New York Jets

The reigning UFL MVP from the defending champion Birmingham Stallions, Martinez is in a battle for the third quarterback job for the Jets with Andrew Peasley. Because of the NFL’s new rule allowing for an emergency third quarterback to be available on game days, most teams will take a long look at keeping a third QB on the active roster.

The UFL’s leading rusher this past season, Martinez is an attractive option because of his mobility. He can come in as a backup and make plays with his feet. He can also serve as a scout squad quarterback, giving the defense a good look whenever the Jets face a mobile quarterback.

In two preseason games, Martinez has completed 13 of 27 passes for 171 yards, with no touchdowns and an interception. He also ran for 28 yards. 

QB Luis Perez, Los Angeles Chargers

Because of Chargers No. 2 quarterback Easton Stick’s struggles in practice and preseason games, the Bolts brought in the UFL’s leading passer…

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Publish date : 2024-08-22 16:26:27

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