By Rick Stroud, Tampa Bay Occasions
TAMPA, Fla.— Doug Martin, whose mix of energy and quickness made him one of the vital explosive working backs of his period for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has died. He was 36.
An announcement launched by Martin’s household stated he died on Saturday.
“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” the assertion learn. ”Reason for demise is at present unconfirmed. Please respect our privateness presently.”
Born in Oakland, the place he additionally performed one yr to finish his professional profession, Martin made his mark at Boise State College, turning into one of the vital productive working backs in program historical past. Throughout his four-year profession after prepping at St. Mary’s-Stockton, he rushed for greater than 3,400 yards and 43 touchdowns, serving to the Broncos preserve nationwide prominence below coach Chris Petersen.
His standout efficiency within the 2011 Maaco Bowl Las Vegas, the place he earned MVP honors, solidified his standing as an NFL-ready prospect. Martin rushed for 151 yards and returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a landing in Boise State’s 56-24 victory over Arizona State.
The Bucs chosen Martin within the first spherical of the 2012 NFL draft (thirty first general), and he wasted no time making an impression. As a rookie, Martin rushed for 1,454 speeding yards and 11 touchdowns, including one other 472 yards by the air. His unforgettable 251-yard, four-touchdown efficiency in opposition to the Raiders stays one of many biggest single-game outings in staff historical past.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the Bucs stated in an announcement. “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.”
Although his profession was marked by flashes of brilliance, together with one other 1,400-yard speeding season in 2015, it was additionally marred by accidents and off-field challenges. In 2016, Martin was suspended 4 video games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse coverage after testing constructive for a banned substance. He later sought remedy and publicly expressed remorse, vowing to rebuild his well being and popularity.
After six seasons in Tampa Bay, Martin signed with the Raiders in 2018, the place he offered veteran management and rushed for 723 yards and 4 touchdowns in what could be his ultimate NFL season.
Martin retired quietly after the 2018 marketing campaign, abandoning an advanced however impactful legacy. In complete, he rushed for five,356 yards and 30 touchdowns over seven seasons. His 4,633 speeding yards and 26 touchdowns with Tampa Bay nonetheless place him among the many Bucs’ all-time greats on the place.
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Initially Printed: October 19, 2025 at 5:06 PM PDT
