Canutillo High School alumnus named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year

Former Canutillo High School standout and Brigham Young University running back LJ Martin capped a dominant junior season by being named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, conference officials announced this week.

Martin finished the regular season as the Big 12’s leading rusher with 1,229 yards. He scored 11 touchdowns and averaged 5.7 yards per carry, anchoring the Cougars’ offense and establishing himself as one of the nation’s most consistent playmakers. His rushing total ranks 12th nationally.

The honor marks the most significant accolade of Martin’s collegiate career and further solidifies his role as BYU’s top offensive weapon. This season was the third straight year in which Martin led the Cougars in rushing, a streak that began during his freshman year and has continued through BYU’s transition into the Power Five ranks.

Coaches across the Big 12 credited Martin’s blend of power, vision and durability for his breakout year. He logged multiple 100-yard performances, often carrying the Cougars in close games and helping the team stay competitive in one of the country’s toughest conferences.

Martin’s rise has been closely watched in his hometown of El Paso, where he starred for the Canutillo Eagles and built a reputation as one of the region’s most electric athletes. His senior year at Canutillo, he led the Eagles deep into the state playoffs and was widely regarded as one of Texas’ top high school running backs.

Former coaches and teammates at Canutillo High celebrated the news of his award, calling it a testament to his dedication on and off the field.

“LJ always had the drive to be great,” said Canutillo head coach Scott Brooks. “He represented our community with pride then, and he continues to make us proud now.”

With one season of eligibility remaining, Martin is expected to be a key figure for BYU moving forward — and potentially a name to watch for national awards and NFL consideration.

For now, his latest accolade adds another chapter to a career that began on the orange-and-blue fields of Canutillo and has grown into one of the Big 12’s brightest success stories. Additionally, Martin was named semifinalist for Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award.The award annually recognizes the top offensive player in college football who has played for and graduated from a Texas high school or currently play at a Texas FBS school.