49ers Legend Jerry Rice Reveals Rookie Nick Martin’s Insane 12-Hour Training Days Just to Earn a Spot on the Roster

October 25, 2025 – Santa Clara, California

When San Francisco 49ers legend Jerry Rice speaks, the football world listens. And this week, Rice set social media on fire after revealing a shocking story about one of the team’s most driven rookies — Nick Martin, the undrafted wide receiver who’s reportedly training up to 12 hours a day in his relentless pursuit of a spot on the active roster.

“I’ve seen hard workers before,” Rice said during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show. “But this kid… he’s on another level. He’s the first to arrive, the last to leave, and he’s doing everything possible to prove he belongs.”

The 12-Hour Grind

According to reports from team insiders, Martin’s daily routine has become legendary in the 49ers’ facility.
He reportedly arrives at 5:30 a.m. for extra conditioning and film study, spends hours catching passes from practice squad quarterbacks, and finishes his evenings working on footwork, balance, and recovery.

“Nick treats every day like it’s game day,” said one assistant coach. “You can’t teach that kind of hunger. You either have it or you don’t — and he does.”

Even veterans have taken notice. Linebacker Fred Warner called Martin “the most determined guy in the building,” while Deebo Samuel reportedly told teammates that Martin’s energy is “infectious.”

Jerry Rice’s Stamp of Approval

For Jerry Rice — the gold standard of work ethic in NFL history — Martin’s story hit home.

“It reminds me of when I was young,” Rice said. “I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest, but I made sure nobody would ever outwork me. Nick Martin has that same mentality. He’s chasing greatness the right way — with sweat, discipline, and obsession.”

Rice even hinted that Martin could become a future fan favorite if he keeps this up:

“If this kid makes the roster, the fans are gonna love him. He plays like every snap could be his last.”

Fighting for His Dream

Martin, 23, went undrafted out of Oklahoma State, joining the 49ers’ training camp as a long shot to make the final 53-man roster. But with his intensity, focus, and willingness to learn from veterans, he’s quickly earning respect within the organization.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan praised Martin’s attitude earlier this week, saying,

“He doesn’t ask for shortcuts. He just works. That’s exactly the kind of player we want in this building.”

Fans Are Already Taking Notice

After Rice’s comments went viral, “Nick Martin” began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with 49ers fans flooding social media with support and admiration for the rookie’s drive.

One fan wrote:

“If Jerry Rice is praising your work ethic, you’re doing something right. Sign this man to the roster!”

The Bottom Line

In an era where talent often overshadows effort, Nick Martin is proving that grit still matters.
And with Jerry Rice — the greatest receiver of all time — singing his praises, Martin’s 12-hour grind might just pay off in the most rewarding way possible: a real shot under the bright lights of Levi’s Stadium.

“The NFL doesn’t hand you anything,” Rice said. “You earn it. And this kid? He’s earning it — every single day.”