Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers Star Doug Martin Dead: All-Pro Running Back Was 36

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Doug Martin has died. He was 36.

“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” his family said in a statement to Fox Sports on Sunday, October 19. “Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”

The NFL star’s former team also paid tribute to Martin on Sunday, sharing a photo of the player on the field with the caption, “Rest in peace, Doug Martin.”

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the team wrote in a statement to their social media. “From his record-setting rookie season in 2012 to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer, Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise.”

The message continued, “He was a fan favorite during his time in Tampa Bay and was honored as one of the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time for his numerous achievements. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and everyone whom Doug touched throughout his life.”

After news broke of his death on Sunday, Martin was mourned by several former NFL players, including Trai Essex.

“RIP Doug Martin. 36 years young,” Essex wrote via X. “It seems like so many young recently retired ball players are passing away lately. Brothas, take care of yourself and make sure you check in with your brothas. [That] goes for everyone, not just athletes. Praying deeply for the Martin family.”

Martin was a first-round pick of the Buccaneers at No. 31 in 2012. In his first season, Martin rushed for 1,454 yards and had 11 touchdowns and caught 49 passes for 472 yards, resulting in his Pro Bowl achievement. At the time, he achieved the third-most yards from scrimmage as a rookie in NFL history after Eric Dickerson and Ederrin James who had 2,212 yards in 1984 and 2,139 yards in 1999, respectively.

NBC News reported that Martin missed time with injuries in his next two years, but during his All-Pro year in 2015 he rushed for 1,402 yards and six touchdowns and had 33 catches for 271 yards. The outlet reported that Martin was suspended four games by the NFL in 2016 and was released by the Buccaneers after six seasons.

He finished his career in 2018 with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Prior to the NFL, Martin attended Boise State from 2007 to 2011 where he was twice a first team-all conference honoree. He also earned the nickname “Muscle Hamster” for his powerful abilities at 5 feet 9 inches.

Martin rushed for more than 3,4000 yards with the team, averaging 5.5 yards per carry and scoring 43 touchdowns. He was named the Maaca Las Vegas Bowl MVP in 2011 after a 100-yard kick return touchdown, 151 yards rushing and a rushing touchdown to win a game over Arizona State.

The team paid homage to Martin after his death on Sunday, sharing a black-and-white photo of him with the text, “In Memoriam Doug Martin. 1989-2025. Boise State Football 2007-2011.” The caption read, “Rest in peace to a Bronco legend. You will be missed.”