Kansas City, MO – September 2, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs have signed rookie running back Damien Martinez from the Seattle Seahawks’ practice squad, officially adding him to their 53-man roster just days before Week 1 kickoff.
Martinez, 21, was a seventh-round pick out of Oregon State. A three-year starter for the Beavers, he racked up over 3,300 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-Pac-12 honors in 2023.
Known as a downhill runner with patience and vision, Martinez impressed Kansas City during a Top-30 pre-draft visit. He later flashed in preseason, breaking off a 19-yard run against the Chiefs’ defense.
The signing gives Kansas City a physical complement behind Isiah Pacheco, who remains the clear RB1. With Jerick McKinnon gone and Clyde Edwards-Helaire no longer on the roster, Martinez provides immediate depth.
ROSTER MOVE: Chiefs Sign Rookie RB Damien Martinez From Seahawks’ Practice Squad pic.twitter.com/paRHREzpKd
— Adam Schetfer (@fanhub_nfl) September 2, 2025
Coach Andy Reid has long valued versatile backs. While Martinez enters as a power option, the Chiefs see untapped upside in his pass-catching ability, especially in an offense where checkdowns often turn into chunk plays.
By NFL rules, Martinez must remain on the active roster for at least three weeks. For GM Brett Veach, it’s the definition of a low-risk, high-reward addition to a roster built for another championship run.
Fans on social media called the move “sneaky smart,” with many noting Kansas City’s track record of turning overlooked players into key contributors. Martinez could be the latest name in that tradition.
At worst, he becomes a dependable grinder for late-game carries. At best, Martinez develops into a reliable rotation piece, giving the Chiefs another weapon as they chase yet another AFC crown.
