Doug Martin, a two-time Pro Bowl running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who played seven seasons in the NFL, died Saturday, his family announced. He was 36 years old.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” Martin’s family said in a statement, according to Fox Sports and the Tampa Bay Times. “The cause of death is unconfirmed at this time. Please respect our privacy at this time.”
A first-round pick out of Boise State in 2012, Martin burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie with 1,926 yards from scrimmage. That total was the most by a first-year player in league history, trailing only Hall of Famers Eric Dickerson and Edgerrin James at the time.
After two slow seasons, he made a comeback with the Buccaneers in 2015, ranking second in the NFL with 1,402 yards rushing. This performance earned him All-Pro selection and his second Pro Bowl selection.
Martin signed a five-year, $35.75 million contract to remain in Tampa Bay the following offseason. However, the team released him in 2018 after failing to reach 450 yards in either of his two seasons with the franchise.
He joined the Oakland Raiders in 2019 and took over as the lead option when Marshawn Lynch was injured, starting nine games and accumulating 723 rushing yards. However, after re-signing with the team in 2019, he was placed on injured reserve in a settlement and never played in the NFL again.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the Buccaneers said in a statement Sunday. “From his record-setting 2012 rookie season to multiple Pro Bowl selections in his six seasons with the Buccaneers, Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise. He was a fan favorite during his time in Tampa Bay and was recognized as one of the top 50 Buccaneers of all time for his many accomplishments. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and everyone Doug touched throughout his life.”
Standing 5-9 and weighing 223 pounds, he earned the nickname “Muscle Hamster” for his compact build and powerful running style. However, Martin revealed that he actively opposed this nickname, preferring “Dogernaut” instead.
“The name ‘Muscle Hamster’ is the worst nickname anyone could ever give someone,” Martin told USA TODAY Sports in 2015. “I hope that changes and I hope that I play to a level where my nickname changes. That’s my goal.”
