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."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers roster moves: Nick Zakelj released to make room for O-lineman signing
The San Francisco 49ers have signed offensive lineman Doug Kramer Jr. to a one-year deal. He was among three offensive linemen who recently worked out for the 49ers. To make room on the roster, the team released offensive lineman Nick Zakelj. That leaves quarterback Brock... -
49ers roster moves: RB Zamir White among 3 signed; 3 players waived
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the San Francisco 49ers signed former Las Vegas Raiders running back Zamir White to a one-year deal, which the team quickly confirmed. He worked out for the 49ers this week. Former Raiders RB Zamir White is signing with the 49ers.— Adam... -
49ers training camp: Titans joint practice sparks fights; Defense, Brock Purdy shine
The San Francisco 49ers held their 11th full training camp practice on Tuesday as they continued preparations for the 2026 NFL season. The practice was a joint session with the Tennessee Titans, whom the 49ers will face in Thursday night's preseason opener. Head coach Kyle... -
Kyle Shanahan, Brock Purdy share updates after 49ers-Titans joint practice
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy spoke with reporters after Tuesday's joint practice with the Tennessee Titans. Here's everything they had to say. Transcripts provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications staff. Head Coach Kyle...