Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Doug Martin has died at the age of 36, his family confirmed.
According to a statement the family shared with Fox Sports Greg Auman, Martin passed away on Saturday morning: “It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning. Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”
According to reports, Martin died while in police custody at an Oakland hospital. Authorities said they encountered him early Saturday after responding to a report of a possible home break-in. Police said the suspect experienced “a medical emergency” and became unresponsive after a “brief struggle” during the arrest. Emergency medical personnel provided aid at the scene before transporting him to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Officials said the incident remains under investigation.
Boise State University released a statement honoring Martin’s life and career, as well as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who wrote: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin. 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. 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.”
The Las Vegas Raiders shared a statement: “The Raiders Family was saddened to learn of the recent passing of Doug Martin. A native of Stockton, Calif., Martin joined the Silver and Black in 2018 after six seasons in Tampa Bay, and he led the Raiders with 723 rushing yards that season. A two-time Pro Bowl selection out of Boise State, Martin rushed for over 5,000 yards with 30 touchdowns in his pro career. The condolences of the entire Raider Nation are with Doug’s family at this time.”
The NFL also posted on X: “The NFL family mourns the loss of Doug Martin.We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates.”
Martin spent seven seasons in the NFL (all but one with the Buccaneers) who drafted him 31st overall out of Boise State in 2012. During his college career, he was a standout player for the Broncos, helping lead the team to an undefeated 2009 season and a Fiesta Bowl victory. He ended his Boise State tenure with consecutive 1,200-yard rushing seasons and 17 career 100-yard games, totaling 3,431 rushing yards — still among the program’s top 10 all-time. Under head coach Chris Petersen, the Broncos went an impressive 50–3 during Martin’s four years.
Martin made an immediate impact in the NFL, rushing for 1,454 yards and scoring 12 total touchdowns as a rookie — both career highs. Although injuries hampered parts of his career, he bounced back in 2015 with another 1,400-yard season, earning him a long-term contract extension. However, he was released two years later following a suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. He finished his career with the Oakland Raiders in 2018, sharing the backfield with Marshawn Lynch before retiring. Across 84 games, Martin totaled 5,356 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns and was regarding as one of the most dynamic running backs of his era.
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