Doug Martin, a former running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, died on Saturday at the age of 36. His family announced the news with a statement.
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"It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning," Martin's family said in a statement to Fox Sports' Greg Auman. "Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time."
Nicknamed the "Muscle Hamster," Martin spent his college career at Boise State University (2007-2011) and delivered significant success. He earned first team all-conference honors twice while rushing for 3,431 yards and 43 touchdowns.
He tied for the fourth-most 100-yard games in school history with 17, and he capped off his collegiate career by winning Las Vegas Bowl MVP.
Martin entered the NFL as a first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. He landed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and immediately made an impact by rushing for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie. He earned Pro Bowl honors as the Buccaneers went 7-9.
Never forget Doug Martin’s insane breakout performance vs the Raiders.
- 25 carries
- 251 rushing yards
- 4 TDsThe 4th most rushing yards by a rookie in a single game ever, and the 12th most by any player.
Rest in peace, Muscle Hamsterpic.twitter.com/VJGUOkuelv
— Mike Kennedy (@MikeKennedyNFL) October 19, 2025
Martin's best game of his rookie season still stands as one of the best in team history. He rushed for 251 yards against the Raiders and scored four touchdowns as the Buccaneers won 42-32.
The California native only appeared in 17 combined games the next two seasons, but he rebounded in 2015. Fully healthy, he rushed for 1,402 yards and six touchdowns while earning his second trip to the Pro Bowl. He also earned First-Team All-Pro honors.
The Muscle Hamster only spent two more seasons with the Buccaneers while rushing for just over 400 yards each season. The team released him ahead of the 2018 season. He signed with the Raiders and spent his final season in Oakland.
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) October 20, 2025
Martin took over for an injured Marshawn Lynch partway through the 2018 season. He rushed for 723 yards and four touchdowns as the Raiders went 4-12.
His NFL career ended after the 2018 season. The Raiders placed him on Injured Reserve in August 2019 before ultimately releasing him.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin," the Buccaneers said in a statement. "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."
