LJ Martin is a running back and 2026 NFL Draft prospect who played his collegiate career with the BYU Cougars. A native of Canutillo, Texas, Martin was rated a four-star recruit who initially committed to Texas Tech before flipping to Stanford, then made a final commitment switch to BYU on signing day, joining the Cougars in the 2022 recruiting class. He contributed immediately as a freshman, rushing for 776 yards in his debut season with moments including two touchdowns against Arkansas. He built on that production in 2024 with 718 yards and seven touchdowns on 138 carries and then broke out in 2025 as BYU's featured back, rushing for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns on 237 carries while averaging 5.5 yards per carry and adding 36 receptions for 255 yards. Over his career with the Cougars, Martin accumulated 2,541 rushing yards, 23 rushing touchdowns, and developed into one of the most productive backs in the Big 12 Conference.
Measured at 6-2 and 225 pounds, Martin is a big, physical downhill runner who brings above-average contact balance and the strength to run through arm tackles and finish in tight spaces. He plays with patience behind his offensive line, identifying gaps before accelerating through them decisively, and his vision in the run game has allowed him to maximize blocks and produce consistent yardage in short areas. His receiving ability out of the backfield improved throughout his career, adding a dimension to his game that increases his value at the next level. He is most effective in gap and power schemes where his physicality and size can be used as an advantage against opposing front sevens. Martin projects as a mid-to-late-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft with the frame and running style to develop into a capable backup or complementary back in a physical NFL offense.
