College athletics – and football in particular – have become a game of musical chairs in recent years.
Unfortunately for Oregon State, when the music stopped at the most crucial time, they were left seatless.
Oregon State got DESTROYED by realignment.
• Bottom 10 P5 Program of All-Time, Jonathan Smith comes along and creates hope
• Oregon State is left out in realignment
• Jonathan Smith leaves for Michigan State
• DJ Uiagalelei, Damien Martinez, and others portal as a result pic.twitter.com/jZj66H4Sjo
— College Football Report (@CFBRep) April 9, 2024
Coming off a solid 2023 season in what was the final year of the Pac-12 conference, the future suddenly looks bleaker than ever for Oregon State.
Besides coaching changes and the uncertainty of the future, the Beavers just found out that All-American running back Damien Martinez is reportedly set to enter the transfer portal, joining a list of key departures from the team.
— damien martinez🔸 (@damienfor6) April 10, 2024
According to Jake Hedberg of 247Sports, the talented Martinez is poised to make the move after two seasons with the team.
“Multiple sources have indicated to BeaverBlitz that star Oregon State All-American running back Damien Martinez intends to enter the transfer portal when it opens next week,” Hedberg reported.
Damien Martinez is a favorite of mine. Very interested to see where he ends up.
One of the best cut-back runners in college. Very productive career. You wouldn't think hes was 230 pounds with how well he moves.
Top 12 in Y/AC, MTF & 15+ yd runs in the P5 (min 125 att) #Devy https://t.co/7VeKV1YLfj pic.twitter.com/bSSPekKOqd
— Cory P. (@FF_Guitarist) April 9, 2024
The news comes on the heels of significant losses for the Beavers, including quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei’s transfer to the Florida State Seminoles and the anticipated departure of offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga, who is expected to be a top-20 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Oregon State RB Damien Martinez Turned Down $400,000 From the Beavers and Entered the Transfer Portal https://t.co/mg5YVmMYi6 pic.twitter.com/bLKmPdqt4N
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) April 10, 2024
Thats what's so messed up. A ton of people bought jerseys and cards. Banner was hung for him a couple days ago. Sucks :/
— Conner (@C_King2013) April 10, 2024
Martinez’s potential transfer presents a significant setback for Oregon State, leaving the team with only three scholarship running backs on the roster (Jam Griffin, Anthony Hankerson, and Isaiah Newell.)
Once again, we are seeing some light shed on the shady dealings in college athletics. Especially in football. Agents contacting players for months (including DURING the season) should NOT be allowed. This is a terrible blow to Oregon State. Damien Martinez is a beast and will… pic.twitter.com/c9VFwXgNeW
— Conner (@C_King2013) April 9, 2024
During his time in Corvallis, the 6-foot, 232-pound Martinez showcased his talent, amassing impressive statistics on the ground.
Martinez rushed for 1,185 yards and nine touchdowns last season, while also contributing 126 receiving yards in the passing game.
I would love to see Miami land Damien Martinez from the portal. Absolute bulldozer who brings something a little different to the #Canes RB room.
The only risk is hopefully Mishael Powell doesn’t get hurt trying to tackle him in practice. pic.twitter.com/tTM9Mdbl2i
— Jeremy Marks-Peltz (@JMP1063) April 9, 2024
The departure of Martinez compounds the challenges facing the Beavers, who are also undergoing a coaching transition.
Former head coach Jonathan Smith departed for the Michigan State Spartans, taking key assistants, including offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren and assistant HC/RBs coach Keith Bhonapha, with him.
My NFL Comp for Damien Martinez is Rhamondre Stevenson
A running back with a larger frame, possessing exceptional vision and elusive moves, with a smooth, silky running style
Let’s get this kid to the SEC on a powerhouse team 👀#NFLDraft2025pic.twitter.com/5YIcikQGWI
— Snoog’s Dynasty Society (@FFSnoog) April 10, 2024
Trent Bray, a longtime assistant under Smith’s leadership, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Beavers.
Bray will be supported by Ryan Gunderson as offensive coordinator and Keith Heyward as defensive coordinator.
“Hey Damien! Would you like to model some of the new PAC-2 uniforms for this upcoming season?”
Damien Martinez: pic.twitter.com/RSyall8xfR
— Austin 🦆 (@deviousduck_) April 9, 2024
In 2023, the Beavers raced to an impressive 8-2 start before finishing the season with three straight losses, including a 40-8 defeat to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the Sun Bowl.
So it’s effectively game over for us. If you can’t convince people to stay or come due solely to conference affiliation, then we may as well find something else to fill our time with, cause we will never be relevant in any sport ever again
— AngryBeaver2.0 (@0_angrybeaver2) April 9, 2024
What are your thoughts on Martinez’s decision to enter the transfer portal?
More importantly, where do you think he will end up???
SEC bound https://t.co/lE8le3ZuaS
— Fantasy Fanatics (@FFB_Fanatics) April 9, 2024