Jets sign recently released 49ers quarterback

The 49ers originally signed Martinez on August 27, later promoting him to the active roster on October 2 to serve as Mac Jones' backup while starter Brock Purdy recovered from a turf toe injury. San Francisco waived Martinez in November ahead of Purdy's return and then re-signed him to the practice squad shortly after.

The team released Martinez from the practice squad on Tuesday.

Martinez's release likely signals the 49ers' confidence in rookie quarterback Kurtis Rourke, who appears to have a strong chance to secure a roster spot—if not this season, then heading into 2026. With Martinez gone, Rourke is expected to see increased practice reps.

San Francisco officially opened Rourke's practice window this week. The rookie has been recovering from the ACL surgery he underwent in January, an injury he played through during his final collegiate season at Indiana.

"It's been over a year, pretty much, since I last played and was able to practice fully," Rourke told reporters on Monday. "And so, it's just awesome to be out there, and be able to be with the guys, and get on that schedule, and then be able to translate what I've been learning so much in the classroom to on the field."

The 21-day practice window gives Rourke valuable experience to build momentum heading into the 2026 offseason.

"That's why I was excited to get the practice window opened this season, because any type of practice, any type of work, will prepare me for next year," Rourke added. "And that's ultimately the goal, is to help the team in whatever way possible, and being available is the best thing."