The New England Patriots are at a critical juncture in their 2025 season following a thrilling 23-20 victory over their AFC East rivals, the Buffalo Bills, in Week 5. However, the celebration was short-lived as the team suffered a significant blow with running back Antonio Gibson sidelined for the season due to an ACL injury sustained during a kickoff. With their running back depth now critically thin, the Patriots held tryouts on Tuesday to address the void, signing former UFL standout Jashaun Corbin. Yet, there’s a compelling case to be made that New England is missing out on a golden opportunity by not securing another dynamic talent from the tryout: Damien Martinez.
A Dire Need in the Backfield
With Gibson out, the Patriots’ active roster currently features only two running backs: Rhamondre Stevenson and rookie second-rounder TreVeyon Henderson. While Stevenson has been a reliable workhorse and Henderson brings explosive potential, the lack of depth is a glaring concern for a team aiming to compete in a tough AFC. Jashaun Corbin, recently signed, may eventually contribute, but relying solely on him as a backup plan is a risky proposition. Depth is critical in the NFL, especially at a position as physically demanding as running back, and Martinez represents an immediate solution.
Who Is Damien Martinez?
Damien Martinez, a former seventh-round pick by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2025 NFL Draft, is a 5’11”, 217-pound powerhouse from Lewisville, Texas. Released from Seattle’s practice squad on September 19, Martinez is still searching for the right opportunity to launch his NFL career. His college resume, however, speaks volumes about his potential to make an impact.
Over three collegiate seasons—two at Oregon State and one at Miami (FL)—Martinez amassed an impressive 3,169 rushing yards on 514 carries, averaging an electric 6.2 yards per carry, and scored 26 touchdowns. His performance earned him First-Team All-Pac-12 honors in both 2022 and 2023, showcasing his consistency and dominance. Martinez’s physical running style, combined with his ability to break tackles, makes him a perfect fit for a Patriots team that values toughness and reliability in the backfield.
Why Martinez Is a Must-Sign
Martinez’s skill set aligns perfectly with New England’s needs. Here’s why the Patriots cannot afford to let him slip away:
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Ball Security: One of Martinez’s standout traits is his ability to protect the football. In college, he fumbled just three times across 546 touches from scrimmage—a remarkable feat for a power back. In contrast, Rhamondre Stevenson has struggled with ball security at times, making Martinez’s reliability an attractive asset.
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Physical Presence: At 217 pounds, Martinez brings a bruising, contact-embracing style that complements the speed and agility of Henderson and the all-around game of Stevenson. His ability to grind out tough yards could provide a new dimension to the Patriots’ rushing attack, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
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Depth and Versatility: While Martinez may not immediately challenge Stevenson or Henderson for the starting role, he offers valuable insurance. His ability to step in when either back needs a breather or struggles ensures the Patriots maintain a high level of production in the run game. His college production suggests he can handle a significant workload if called upon.
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Untapped Potential: As a recent draft pick who has yet to find his footing in the NFL, Martinez is a low-risk, high-reward signing. The Patriots have a history of turning overlooked talents into contributors, and Martinez’s collegiate track record indicates he could thrive with the right opportunity.
A Missed Opportunity?
By not signing Martinez, the Patriots risk letting a potential playmaker slip through their fingers. The team’s running back room is in desperate need of reinforcement, and Martinez’s combination of size, production, and reliability makes him an ideal candidate to bolster the roster. Even if it means placing him on the practice squad initially, securing Martinez ensures the Patriots have a talented option ready to step up when needed.
The Patriots’ front office has a chance to make a blockbuster move—not by trading for a star, but by capitalizing on the untapped potential of a player who was in their facility just days ago. Martinez’s 3,169 yards and 26 touchdowns in college are a testament to his ability to produce, and his physical running style could be the missing piece in New England’s backfield. Letting him leave without a contract would be a mistake the Patriots cannot afford to make.
Act Now, Patriots!
The Patriots have a golden opportunity to add a dynamic, reliable, and powerful running back to their roster. Damien Martinez is not just a depth piece—he’s a potential game-changer who could help stabilize a backfield reeling from Gibson’s injury. New England must act swiftly to sign Martinez before another team recognizes the value of this 217-pound playmaker. The time is now to unleash this hidden gem in Foxborough.