Jets Legend Curtis Martin to Announce Draft Picks in Hometown Pittsburgh

The Hall of Fame running back will represent the Jets at the 2026 NFL Draft in his native city.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:05am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic motion of a football player, their body deconstructed into sharp, overlapping planes of green, blue, and orange, capturing the explosive energy of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a Jets running back's explosive power and determination, honoring the franchise's storied history as they look to the future.Today in Pittsburgh

The New York Jets have announced that legendary running back Curtis Martin will return to his hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to announce the team's second-round draft picks during the 2026 NFL Draft. Martin, who was born and raised in Pittsburgh and played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, spent the majority of his Hall of Fame career with the Jets after starting with the New England Patriots.

Why it matters

This move holds special significance as it allows the Jets to honor one of their all-time greats in his hometown, while also providing Martin the opportunity to reconnect with his Pittsburgh roots. It also continues the Jets' efforts to build excitement around the draft and engage with their fanbase.

The details

Martin, 52, will announce the Jets' two second-round picks, which are the 33rd and 44th overall selections. The former running back spent 8 seasons with the Jets after starting his career with the Patriots, making 3 All-Pro teams and 5 Pro Bowls. He finished his career with over 14,000 rushing yards and 100 total touchdowns, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The players

Curtis Martin

A Hall of Fame running back who spent the majority of his NFL career with the New York Jets after starting with the New England Patriots. He was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and played college football at the University of Pittsburgh.

Breece Hall

The Jets' starting running back who was franchise tagged this offseason, making him the 5th highest-paid RB in the NFL. He ended the Jets' decade-long drought of not having a 1,000-yard rusher in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Curtis Martin announcing any draft picks for the Jets at any location would be noteworthy. However, this year it holds extra special meaning.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Insider

What’s next

The Jets will look to build on Breece Hall's breakout 2025 season, where he became the team's first 1,000-yard rusher in over a decade. With Hall now the 5th highest-paid RB in the league, the team will have high expectations for him to be one of the best running backs in the NFL in 2026.

The takeaway

This move by the Jets not only honors one of their all-time greats in Curtis Martin, but also allows the team to engage with their fanbase in Martin's hometown of Pittsburgh. It's a win-win that continues the Jets' efforts to build excitement around the draft and their future.