Former NFL running back Doug Martin, a two-time Pro Bowler known for his power during six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has died at 36.
Martin’s family confirmed his death Saturday, saying, “It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning. Cause of death is unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy.” The statement came after TMZ first reported the news.
Martin’s death remains under investigation. The San Francisco Chronicle and Bay Area News Group reported that Oakland police said Martin died after a “brief struggle” while being taken into custody. This followed reports of a home invasion early Saturday morning. Officers responded to a medical emergency at a residence in East Oakland around 4:15 a.m. Martin was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The Alameda County coroner and multiple oversight agencies have launched concurrent investigations into the incident.
Born in Stockton and raised in Oakland, Martin starred at Boise State, rushing for over 3,400 yards and scoring 43 touchdowns in four seasons. Teammates dubbed him “Muscle Hamster” for his stature and strength.
Selected 31st overall by Tampa Bay in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Martin quickly proved his worth. As a rookie, he ran for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns. He earned a Pro Bowl nod and set multiple team records. One of his most iconic performances came that year against the Oakland Raiders. He rumbled for 251 yards and four touchdowns—one of the greatest single-game rushing displays in league history.
After injuries slowed him, Martin staged a comeback in 2015 with 1,402 rushing yards and six touchdowns. He earned Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors, securing his place among top running backs.
Across his seven-year career—six seasons in Tampa Bay and one with the Oakland Raiders in 2018—Martin tallied 5,356 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns. He ranks fourth in Buccaneers history for career rushing yards and third for rushing touchdowns. His 4,633 yards in Tampa Bay remain among the franchise’s top marks.
The Buccaneers released a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Doug Martin. From his record-setting rookie season to his Pro Bowl years, Doug left a lasting impact on our franchise. He was a fan favorite and among our Top 50 Buccaneers of all time.”
Former teammates and fans echoed those feelings, recalling Martin’s quiet determination and running style that made him a top NFL player in the mid-2010s. Boise State wrote on X, “Rest in peace to a Bronco legend. You will be missed.”
Martin’s story resonated: a local kid who overcame size expectations, turned hard work into legacy, and earned respect for humility off the field and ferocity on it.
Though questions remain surrounding the circumstances of his death, tributes continue to pour in from fans, former coaches, and teammates. They celebrate his life and legacy. For many, Doug Martin will forever be remembered not only as the “Muscle Hamster,” but as a symbol of perseverance. He is a reminder that greatness often comes in the most unassuming forms.
