NFL Draft 2026 Scouting Report for BYU RB LJ Martin

LJ Martin is a physical downhill running back with the nuance and feel for space to make an impact in an NFL backfield.

BYU's star running back combines patience, vision, swift footwork, and run physicality that should appeal to NFL downhill offenses that infuse inside zone and shotgun runs.

Martin is a former 3-star recruit for the BYU Cougars. Martin remains patient and deliberate with his approach. He plays the game at his speed and pace, leading to a productive season.

Dame Parson is the lead host of the Locked On NFL Draft podcast. He also serves as co-host of the Scouting Room NFL Podcast alongside Daniel Harms.

Where He Wins

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- Martin's balance through contact is impressive. He absorbs and dishes out punishment as a runner. He is difficult to bring down when attacking up high.

- BYU's star RB has a natural feel for the game. He runs with swift footwork and patience to effectively navigate congestion.

- He is a disciplined runner who stays the course and takes the yards the OL blocks. Martin plays with great tempo and pacing; it is difficult to speed him up.

- Martin excels in pass protection. He has powerful strikes with good hand placement to control the rep once his hands land on the free runner.

- He is a sneaky receiver out of the backfield. Martin works well into the voids in the shallow parts of the field. He executes shallow routes and RB screens.

Areas of Improvement

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- Martin is an average-level athlete. He lacks an explosive burst through the line of scrimmage. His top-end speed will limit his chunk play rate at the next level.

- BYU's leading rusher is a high-waisted runner. He presents a big target and strike zone for the defense to target for a potential turn.

- Receiving upside will be tapped as he does not run a robust route tree.

Grade, Rank, and Pro Comparison

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GRADE: 7.0 (High-Level Backup/Starter Upside — 3rd Round)

COMPARABLE GRADE: Tyjae Spears (7.1 in 2023), Roschon Johnson (6.9 in 2023), Zach Evans (7.1 in 2023)

OVERALL RANK: 122

POSITION RANK: RB7

PRO COMPARISON: James Conner

Measurables and Testing Data

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Height: 6'2"
Weight: 220

Workout numbers and data will be added at a later date.