Former All-Pro RB Doug Martin dead at 36

Monday, 20 October 2025 07:30

By Reuters

Former NFL All-Pro running back and Boise State star Doug Martin has passed away at the age of 36, his family said in a statement on Sunday, with the cause of death "currently unconfirmed".

TMZ and FOX were among the media organisations to confirm the news with people close to Martin on Sunday.

A statement from his family provided to FOX read: "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".

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with whom he played for the majority of his career, issued a statement on Sunday afternoon: "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."

Rest in peace, Doug Martin ♥️ pic.twitter.com/G6UZrp46RG
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 19, 2025

After being selected No. 31 overall in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Martin made an immediate impact for the Buccaneers as a rookie, making the Pro Bowl and NFL All-Rookie Team after a 1,454-yard, 11-touchdown season.

Injuries hampered Martin throughout the rest of his career, mostly spent in Tampa Bay, though he added a second Pro Bowl appearance and 1,400-yard season in 2015, when he was a first-team All-Pro.

Despite the injuries, Martin managed to exceed 400 yards rushing every campaign of his career. That level of consistency allowed him to place fourth on Tampa Bay's all-time rushing yards chart with 4,633 yards over six seasons. He's also third all-time in Buccaneers rushing touchdowns, with 26.

He finished his seven-year career with one season playing for the Oakland Raiders in 2018.

Martin was also one of the all-time greats for Boise State, rushing for 3,431 yards from 2007-11, placing him eighth on the school's all-time rushing list. He is also sixth with 43 career rushing touchdowns.

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