Adrian Martinez

Martinez didn’t experience the breakout campaign many were expecting with new coach Scott Frost at the helm in 2019. While some of that could be attributed to Martinez battling a nagging knee issue, it’s worth noting that Martinez’s rushing numbers (144 carries for 636 yards and seven touchdowns) were essentially on par with what he recorded as a freshman. Where Martinez struggled most was in the passing game, finishing the season with just a 59.4 completion percentage and a 10:9 TD:INT ratio to go along with 7.8 passing yards per attempt. A second offseason in the Frost system should pay dividends, though it’s worth noting top target JD Spielman has opted to transfer elsewhere for his final season. Wan’Dale Robinson seems the likely candidate to hold that mantle in 2020 after hauling in 40 passes for 453 yards and two scores last year. Jack Stoll should also supply a reliable option at tight end.

Martinez’s blend of accuracy and athleticism makes him a perfect fit for Scott Frost’s high-powered system that emphasizes quick passing and also works at its best when the quarterback poses a rushing threat. He got off to a rocky start in 2018 but once he settled in, Martinez averaged 30.1 fantasy points over his final six games, accounting for 16 total touchdowns in that span. There’s reason to believe he can parlay his strong finish into a full year of elite production as he further masters the offense and strengthens his rapport with his skill position players.

Martinez enrolled early to get a jump start in spring and it paid off in a big way. As the only Scott Frost recruit under center, Martinez compiled an impressive showing in the spring game to the tune of 14 carries for 60 yards and three touchdowns and 10-for-13 passing for 114 yards and another score. Patrick O'Brien transferred following the session, clearing one of the hurdles between Martinez and the starting job. He enters fall camp in competition with just Tristan Gebbia to lock down the gig, but his spring effort, combined with his ideal skill set for Frost's offense, puts the freshman in a good position to potentially start in Lincoln right off the bat. A talented group of pass catchers, including Stanley Morgan and JD Spielman could yield immediate fantasy viability for Martinez should he earn the starting nod.