The New York Jets made some significant roster moves ahead of their training camp practice by signing quarterback Adrian Martinez and cornerback Kendall Sheffield. In corresponding moves, the team released quarterback Ben Bryant and cornerback Nehemiah Shelton.
Martinez, 24, brings a wealth of experience to the Jets, having started 47 games over five seasons in college football with Nebraska and Kansas State. He passed for 9,752 yards, 51 touchdowns, and 31 interceptions during his collegiate career, while also showcasing his mobility with 627 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Despite going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Martinez signed with the Detroit Lions but was eventually released. He then found success in the UFL with the Birmingham Stallions, where he was named the league MVP and the 2024 UFL Championship MVP after throwing for 1,749 yards, 15 touchdowns, and leading the league in rushing yards with 528.
Martinez will now join the Jets’ quarterback room, which includes established veterans like Aaron Rodgers and Tyrod Taylor, as well as younger talents Andrew Peasley and Jordan Travis, who is currently on the Active/Non-Football Injury list.
On the defensive side of the ball, Sheffield, 28, adds depth to the Jets’ secondary after being drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. In his three seasons with the Falcons, Sheffield recorded 101 combined tackles, six passes defended, and two forced fumbles. After a brief hiatus during the 2022 season due to injuries, Sheffield spent time with the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys before splitting time between the Tennessee Titans and San Francisco 49ers in 2023, playing a total of five games.
The Jets’ decision to sign Martinez and Sheffield not only bolsters their roster but also provides them with valuable experience and talent at key positions. With training camp underway, the team looks to build chemistry and cohesion as they prepare for the upcoming season. The additions of Martinez and Sheffield may prove to be crucial as the Jets aim to make strides and compete in a highly competitive league.