It’s the kind of moment that stirs both excitement and uncertainty — when a college football star faces the crossroads between staying for one more season or declaring for the NFL Draft. On Saturday, BYU’s standout running back LJ Martin quietly sent a strong signal about his future, one that could reshape the Cougars’ offense heading into next year.
Lost amid No. 11 BYU’s 41–21 victory over UCF at LaVell Edwards Stadium — and the heated national debate about whether the 11-1 Cougars deserve an at-large College Football Playoff bid — was a powerful clue about Martin’s next move. The junior, who still has another year of eligibility, took part in Senior Day ceremonies before rushing for three touchdowns, becoming the first BYU player to accomplish that feat since Tyler Allgeier did so in 2021. It was a performance that felt as much like a farewell as a celebration.
When asked by KSL Sports reporter Mitch Harper why he chose to be honored alongside the seniors, Martin admitted it came after some professional feedback. “Yeah, just the feedback I’ve gotten from coaches and stuff ... so yeah, it was just suggested,” he said. The subtlety of his response didn’t hide the deeper implication — LJ Martin might be ready to make the leap.
Spotlight Shifts to the Big 12 Title Game
BYU’s next challenge is monumental: the Big 12 Championship Game against No. 5 Texas Tech. Set for Saturday at 10 a.m. MST at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the Cougars will hit the field live on ABC and on local radio (102.7 FM/1160 AM). The stakes couldn’t be higher, both for the team and for Martin’s potential draft stock.
Earlier this week, veteran NFL draft analyst Todd McShay projected that Martin could be one of the top five running backs selected in the 2026 draft — if he decides to go pro now. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 220 pounds, Martin has powered his way to a career-best 1,229 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns this season, while adding nearly 225 receiving yards through the air. His combination of speed, size, and discipline has many scouts intrigued.
That’s why many expect him to be in the running for Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year when the conference awards are announced later this week. But here’s where it gets controversial — should he ride that momentum into the NFL now, or stay another year and risk injury for one more collegiate shot at glory?
More Cougars Weigh Their Options
Martin wasn’t the only Cougar to participate in Senior Day despite having eligibility left. Linebacker Isaiah Glasker, defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa, and punter Sam Vander Haar (a 28-year-old transfer from Pitt and native of Australia) also joined the ceremony. Both Glasker and Tanuvasa are also viewed as potential NFL prospects — though their seasons have been marked by ups and downs.
Head coach Kalani Sitake, who has emphasized player empowerment since arriving at BYU nearly a decade ago, reiterated his approach: “We are going to do what’s best for them,” he said. Sitake encourages his underclassmen to explore NFL possibilities early, ensuring they receive Senior Day honors in case they ultimately choose to move on. “It’s about making sure they get that farewell, rather than missing the chance if they leave early,” he explained, referencing cases like Chase Roberts and Mory Bamba, who went through similar ceremonies last year.
Reflections from the Locker Room
If Saturday indeed marked Martin’s final game at LaVell Edwards Stadium, he made it count. Coming off a career-best 222-yard game against Cincinnati, he followed up with 95 rushing yards and five receptions for 35 more against UCF. Freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier voiced what many teammates were thinking: “It’s been awesome playing with Martin... I was hoping he’d come back next year.”
Martin’s name now sits at No. 13 on BYU’s all-time rushing touchdown list with 22 scores, edging past former Cougar greats like Eric Lane and Lopini Katoa. Yet, he downplayed individual achievements, crediting his offensive line. “I’m just focused on wins and losses,” he said. “The O-line’s been moving guys and getting the job done.”
Still, not every game this season has been smooth. In BYU’s 29-7 loss at Texas Tech, Martin still recovering from a shoulder injury, managed just 35 rushing yards and six catches for 29 yards. But now, with another shot at redemption in the Championship Game, the stage is set for a storyline dripping with drama — resilience, redemption, and possibly farewell.
“Yeah, we’re really excited to play them again,” Martin said. “We know that last time wasn’t our best showing. We want to prove ourselves.”
And that’s the question hanging over Cougar Nation: will the Big 12 title game be Martin’s final statement before heading to the NFL? Or will he surprise everyone and return to lead BYU for one last run?
What do you think? Should LJ Martin turn pro while his stock is high, or stay another year to chase unfinished business with BYU? Share your thoughts — this one could split fans right down the middle.
