BYU senior tailback LJ Martin was named to the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award Watch List on Tuesday, August 25, continuing a trend of preseason recognition for the El Paso, Texas, native. This latest honor follows Martin's selection to multiple prestigious award lists earlier in August and his July 7 designation as the Big 12 preseason offensive player of the year.
Preseason Accolades and Recognition
The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award is reserved for candidates who play for an FBS school in Texas or attended a Texas high school. Martin's inclusion marks the third consecutive season he has been named to this specific watch list, according to Mid-Utah Radio on August 25.
Multiple Award Nominations
Martin's recent recognition follows several other high-profile nominations throughout the month. On August 18, Mid-Utah Radio reported that Martin was named to the Doak Walker Award Watch List, an honor presented annually to the nation's most outstanding tailback. Additionally, on August 17, Martin was identified as a representative of BYU on the Walter Camp Award Watch List, which recognizes the top player in major college football.
Record-Breaking 2025 Season
The accolades follow a dominant 2025 campaign for the senior running back. During last season, Martin recorded 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns for the Cougars, while also contributing 36 receptions for 255 yards. His 1,305 rushing yards ranked 11th nationally and stood as the seventh-highest single-season total in BYU history.
Big 12 Preseason Honors
Martin's statistical performance in 2025 also included a 100.38 average yards per game, which ranked 12th in the nation. He also ranked 13th nationally in all-purpose yards per game with 120.0. These figures contributed to his selection as the Big 12 Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, announced on July 7, after he was named the league's Player of the Year for the 2025 season.
Coaching Perspective
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake expressed confidence in Martin's upcoming season during media days in July. "He's ready to do whatever it takes for our program and for our team, to be successful," Sitake said on July 7. The coach noted that the program's goal is to provide Martin with opportunities to continue progressing and improving his game.
Big 12 Preseason Team Details
The Big 12's preseason awards also highlighted several other players. Defensive lineman A.J. Holmes Jr. from Texas Tech was voted Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, the second consecutive year a Red Raider has received the honor. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker from Oklahoma State was named Preseason Newcomer of the Year. BYU also saw significant representation on the Preseason All-Big 12 team, with six players selected, including Martin and offensive lineman Bruce Mitchell.
Upcoming Season Schedule
The BYU football team is scheduled to begin its season on September 5, when they host Utah Tech at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Meanwhile, the Utah Utes are set to host Idaho at Rice-Eccles Stadium on August 27 to begin their season.
