Dane Brugler had his eye on two Big 12 names after last weekend, and both earned a nod from The Athletic’s NFL draft analyst for what they put on tape.
The bigger headline belonged to BYU running back LJ Martin, who piled up 176 yards and three touchdowns on 15 carries in the Cougars’ win over Colorado State. Brugler said the trait that jumps out first is Martin’s ability to process what’s in front of him.
“The No. 1 criterion for me when scouting the running back position is vision - the NFL wants runners with anticipation who can read blocks and find running room,” Brugler wrote. “That is why I enjoy watching Martin, who marries his feet with his eyes and walks the fine line between being patient but also quick and urgent.”
Brugler went further, pointing to the way Martin works with his blocking rather than fighting against it.
“Instead of running into his own blockers, Martin maximizes the blocking using quick eyes and strong, balanced cutting skills. His reads and moves are on time with the blocking execution, which isn’t a coincidence.
“Martin won’t be the most explosive back in the 2027 draft class, but he is a quick and controlled athlete, especially for a bigger back (6 feet 2 inches tall and 226 pounds). And his efficiency at the line of scrimmage - thanks to his vision and decision-making - will make him an asset for an NFL backfield.”
Brugler’s second shoutout went to a player who, by his own admission, had slipped under the radar over the summer: Utah offensive tackle Zereoue Williams. After spending time behind Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu, Williams is now the Utes’ starting left tackle as a sixth-year senior, and Brugler said the early returns look draft-worthy.
“Blocked by Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu on the depth chart the last few seasons, he bided his time and is now the Utes’ starting left tackle as a sixth-year senior,” Brugler wrote of Williams. “Based on the early results, he looks like a draft pick.”
Williams drew praise for his work in both phases, but Brugler singled out his pass protection as the standout.
“In the run game, Williams plays with strength at contact and finishing grit through the whistle. He has been even more impressive in pass protection, showing adequate lateral movements and the massive size (6-7, 316, with 35 3/4-inch arms) to cover up rushers,” Brugler wrote.
“Through three games, Williams has pitched a shutout in pass pro, allowing zero sacks and zero pressures without committing a penalty.”
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