Oregon State University star running back Damien Martinez intends to enter the transfer portal, according to a statement he posted on Instagram and X Wednesday morning.

Martinez, a 6-foot junior, played and started in 12 games in the 2023 season. His 1,185 yards rush yards last season put him at 13th place for rush yards in a single season in the OSU record books according to Beaver Athletics. His four rushing touchdowns last year against Stanford tied for most in a single game in OSU history.

His intended transfer announcement has spurred fans to comment with a mixture of support and heartbreak.

“Some decisions are harder than others and this is easily the hardest one I’ve made in my entire life. I want to thank every coach, fan and Beaver Nation as a whole for your love and support,” Martinez said in his post. “I intend to enter the transfer portal to continue chasing my childhood dreams of this upcoming season. I’m looking forward to what is coming next, please respect my decision.”

This announcement follows the many Beaver basketball players entering the portal last week. The football portal officially opens for the second time from April 15-30 and current updates can be found here.