Former NFL player Doug Martin sadly passed away on October 19 at the young age of 36. His cause of death is still unconfirmed at this time.
In a statement to Fox Sports, Martinâs family expressed, âit 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.â
Martinâs Decorated Career with the NFL
Martin was the 31st overall pick in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft after a standout career at Boise State. He rushed for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie to earn a Pro Bowl. In 2015, Martin rushed 1,402 yards and six touchdowns when he made the Pro Bowl and was first-team All-Pro.
Martin finished his career with 5,356 yards rushing and 30 touchdowns in six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and one with the then Oakland Raiders, now the Las Vegas Raiders. Both teams have since put out a tribute to Martin online.
Martinâs Teams Honor His Memory
The Buccaneers put out a moving statement that detailed his career with their team. âWe 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.â
âHe 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.â
The Raiders mourn Martinâs passing in their official statement.
âThe Raiders Family was saddened to learn of the recent passing of Doug Martin. A native of Stockton, Calif., Martin joined the Silver and Black in 2018 after six seasons in Tampa Bay, and he led the Raiders with 723 rushing yards that season. A two-time Pro Bowl selection out of Boise State, Martin rushed for over 5,000 yards with 30 touchdowns in his pro career. The condolences of the entire Raider Nation are with Doug’s family at this time.â
The NFL posted an official statement on their Facebook page.
âThe NFL family mourns the loss of Doug Martin. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates.â
NFL fans on Facebook flocked to the comments to express their sadness over the loss:
“This one hits hard! Man, the muscle Hamster used to tear it up at Boise and with the Bucs, another one lost way to young! My condolences to the family! I will wear my Boise Martin jersey with pride!” said Katie Parsons.
“RIP and prayers to his family, hope they can get through this, there is never a good time to lose someone, but right around the holidays is one of the worst times ever. Lost my mom a day ago last year, and it hurts to imagine spending family time without her. Wouldnât wish it on anyone,” said Darius Smith.
“RIP Muscle Hamster. As a Bucs fan, this is shocking,” said Ray Esmailzadeh.
“Very saddened by this, he’s one of the orginal people who got me watching the game. Rip,” said Paul Belcher.
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