Former NFL Star Doug Martin Dies at 36

The former athlete was known for his explosive plays and powerful runs during his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Former NFL running back Doug Martin died at the age of 36 on Saturday, October 18. His death marks a heartbreaking end to the life of a player once regarded among the league's brightest talents.

A Family's Grief

The former Pro Bowler's demise was confirmed by his family in a statement, where they expressed their grief, "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."

While the family did not speak of the details surrounding his death, insiders later confirmed that Martin died in Oakland after suffering a medical emergency while in police custody.

A Mysterious Scene

According to the Oakland Police Department, officers responded around 4:15 a.m. on Saturday to a residence on the 11000 block of Ettrick Street following reports of a possible break-in.

Around the same time, dispatchers also received calls about a person experiencing a medical emergency at the same address. When officers arrived, they found Martin inside the home. Authorities said he briefly resisted as they attempted to detain him, but he was soon taken into custody.

Moments later, in the back of the police car, he became unresponsive. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police have not clarified why Martin was being detained or what led to the medical emergency.

A Cloud of Questions Surround His Final Moments

The department stated that multiple agencies, including its Homicide Section, Internal Affairs Bureau, the Oakland Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, will review the circumstances surrounding his death.

The officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. An autopsy will also be conducted to determine Martin’s exact cause of death. This will include whether it was solely the result of a medical emergency or a combination of that condition and the brief struggle with police during his arrest.

From College Hero to NFL Legend

Martin's passing has left former teammates, fans, and the wider football community in shock. He rose to prominence at Boise State, where he starred for four years before being drafted in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Over six seasons in Tampa Bay, he became a fan favorite, earning two Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro honor.

Known for his speed and strength, Martin rushed for more than 5,300 yards and scored 30 touchdowns in his NFL career. He later concluded his professional run with the then–Oakland Raiders in 2018.