1 of 5 | Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin died Saturday in Oakland, Calif. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin battled mental-health issues, and his relatives were seeking medical assistance before he died, the family said.
Martin’s family sought to clarify the circumstances surrounding his death through a statement issued by his former agent, Brian Murphy at Athletes First. He said Martin privately “battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life.”
“Ultimately, illness proved to be the opponent from which Doug could not run,” Murphy wrote.
The Oakland Police Department confirmed Monday that Martin died Saturday while in police custody, leading to rampant speculation on social media about the circumstances of the death. Martin was 36.
“Prior to his death, Martin was involved in a break-in at a residence in Oakland,” the Oakland Police Department said. “While responding officers were attempting to detain him, a brief struggle occurred. After being taken into custody, Martin became unresponsive.
“Paramedics responded to the scene, provided medical aid, and transported Martin to a local hospital, where he later died.”
Police said they responded to a call about a break-in about 4:15 a.m. local time in Oakland. An investigation is ongoing. The officers involved in the incident have been placed on paid administrative leave, in accordance with department policy.
“Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support,” Murphy wrote on behalf of Martin’s family.
“Feeling overwhelmed and disoriented, Doug fled his home during the night and entered a neighbor’s residence two doors down, where he was taken into custody by police. An investigation into what transpired as he was detained is underway.
“The family requests privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
Martin was the No. 31 overall pick by the Buccaneers in the 2012 NFL Draft. He totaled a career-high 1,926 yards and 12 scores over 16 starts in 2012 en route to Pro Bowl honors as a rookie.
Martin dealt with injuries the next two seasons, but returned for an All-Pro campaign in 2015, when he logged 1,673 yards from scrimmage and seven scores. Martin spent six of his seven seasons with the Buccaneers. He spent his final campaign in 2018 with the Oakland Raiders.
Martin — also known as the “Muscle Hamster” due to his 5-foot-9 frame and bruising running style — totaled 6,563 yards from scrimmage, including 5,356 rushing yards, over 84 career appearances. He found the end zone 32 times. The Raiders released Martin before the 2019 season.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the Buccaneers said in a statement. “Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise.”
Notable deaths of 2025
Doug MartinFormer Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin runs the ball in the endzone for a touchdown against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on September 16, 2012. Martin died at the age of 36 on October 18. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
