Former NFL All-Pro running back and Boise State standout Doug Martin has died at the young age of 36, officials announced Sunday.
According to FOX Sports reporter Greg Auman, Martin’s family released a statement saying, “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.”
TMZ first announced the news on Sunday afternoon, saying “a source with direct knowledge” confirmed that Martin, who played in the NFL for seven years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Oakland Raiders, has died. The source “did not share any further details,” TMZ reported.
Martin’s alma mater, Boise State, wrote a tribute to the late Bronco detailing his successful football career and saying he was the school’s first running back to be selected in the first round of the NFL draft, which happened in 2012 when he was selected by the Buccaneers.
ESPN reported that at “Just 5-foot-9, Martin was known for his bruising style, earning him the nickname the ‘Muscle Hamster,’ while amassing 5,356 and 30 touchdowns in seven NFL seasons, all but one with the Bucs.”
According to ESPN, Martin’s “best season came in his All-Pro year in 2015, when he rushed for 1,402 yards and six TDs and had 33 catches for 271 yards and another score.”
Martin was with the Bucs for two more seasons before finishing his career in 2018 with the Raiders.
Around 2:40 p.m., the Buccaneers posted the following statement to X:
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.
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