Doug Martin is the great NFL running back, passed away suddenly at the early age of 36, sending shockwaves across the entire world of sports. On the field, he was an electrifying player and his story is one of early promise, peak professional success, personal struggles and terribly unfortunate end.
Who was Doug Martin?
Born January 13, 1989, in Oakland, California and raised in Stockton, Doug Martin is collegiate football star and finally to an NFL first-round draft choice. He brandished a furious identity as a hard-running backer for seven seasons in the league, an identity well served in calling him Muscle Hamster by the fans.
Doug Martin’s Education
Martin at St. Mary’s High School in Stockton with an excelling in football and track & field as a junior and senior, he achieved significant rushing numbers and was awarded team MVP and regional all-area honors and he also had a long-jump record of 6.69 m and a triple jump of 13.20 m. He committed to Boise State Broncos on December 14, 2006 and played from 2007 to 2011, racking up 3,431 yards rushing and scoring 43 touchdowns.
ALSO READ: Jesus Montero Dies in Motorcycle Accident at 35 | Former MLB Star
Doug Martin’s Career
At Boise State, Martin steadily grew into a dominant force after sparse action in 2007 and 2008 he surged in 2009 and 2010 with multiple 100-yard rushing games and culminating in a roaring senior year. In 2011, he posted 1,299 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, helping establish his NFL readiness.
Doug Martin at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the 31st overall pick in 2012, Martin burst onto the scene with 1,454 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie year to secure a Pro Bowl berth. He is set to franchise rookie records for rushing yards and scrimmage yards and his standout 2015 season of 1,402 rushing yards and six touchdowns earned him a first-team All-Pro selection, injuries and off-field issues would later hamper his dominance on the field.
ALSO READ: Who was Daniel Naroditsky Dies at 29: Age, Net Worth, Career, Family & Legacy of a Chess Star
Doug Martin’s Family
Much of Martin’s private life was kept away from the public his parents informed authorities that the medical assistance they were seeking for their son was on the day of his death. “He had mental health challenges that severely affected his personal and professional life,” said his agent.
Martin was living in St. Petersburg, Florida, with his wife, Brenda and their children. Yet, this detail has not been officially verified by his family, who have requested privacy since his passing however, Hindustan Times and a few other publications reported.
Doug Martin’s Net Worth
Martin’s Estimated Net Worth in INR: Rs. 33 crores to Rs. 50 crores between $4 million and $6 million, having been generated predominantly from NFL contracts, endorsements and community works post-retirement. He fell short with his earning potential due to injury and regrettably, was released before he could gain full contract value.
Doug Martin’s Awards
Martin became a two-time Pro Bowl selection and named a first-team All-Pro in 2015. He set franchise records while playing in Tampa Bay he was selected as one of the top 50 players in the franchise’s history. He was a First-Team All-Mountain West at Boise State and was highly rated on the all-time rushing lists for the school.
How Did Doug Martin Die?
Martin died on October 18, 2025, in Oakland, California after police custody on a call for a break-in. Authorities say there was a brief struggle during his apprehension and while being taken for detention, he became unresponsive and was transported to the hospital, where he succumbed. The cause of death is to be confirmed and remains under investigation and the family has asked for privacy in this matter.
ALSO READ: Former NFL Star Doug Martin Dies in Police Custody After Mental Health Struggle
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. Official investigations are ongoing; facts may evolve as authorities release verified findings.
