Doug Martin, a two-time Pro Bowl running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who played seven seasons in the NFL, died Saturday, according to his family. He was 36.
“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,’ Martin’s family said in a statement, per Fox Sports and The Tampa Bay Times. ‘Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.’
A first-round pick out of Boise State in 2012, Martin stormed onto the NFL scene as a rookie by recording 1,926 yards from scrimmage, a total that at the time trailed only Hall of Famers Eric Dickerson and Edgerrin James for the most in league history by a first-year player.
After two down seasons, he enjoyed a resurgence with the Buccaneers in 2015, when he finished second in the NFL in rushing with 1,402 yards. That performance would earn him an All-Pro nod and his second Pro Bowl nod.
Martin signed a five-year, $35.75 million contract the following offseason to remain with Tampa Bay. But the team released him in 2018 after he failed to reach 450 yards in either of his two seasons with the franchise following the deal.
He joined the Oakland Raiders in 2019 and took over as the lead option when Marshawn Lynch was injured, starting nine games and recording 723 rushing yards. After re-signing with the team in 2019, however, he was later released from injured reserve with a settlement and would not play 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 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.’
Listed at 5-9 and 223 pounds, he earned the nickname ‘Muscle Hamster’ for his compact frame and powerful running style. But Martin actively pushed back against the nickname, making it clear he preferred ‘Dougernaut’ instead.
‘The name ‘Muscle Hamster’ is the worst nickname possibly ever given to somebody,’ Martin told USA TODAY Sports in 2015. ‘I hope it changes, and I hope that I play to a level where my nickname changes. That’s what my goals are.’