Former NFL All-Pro running back and Boise State standout Doug Martin has died at the age of 36. His family confirmed on Sunday.
In a statement released to FOX, his family said, “It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning. The cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”
The East Bay Times reported that Martin died while in Oakland police custody in the early hours of Saturday morning. The newspaper, citing sources close to the investigation, reported that officers were called to a suspected home break-in shortly after 4.15 am in East Oakland. A “brief struggle” occurred before Martin became unresponsive after being taken into custody.
The incident began when police were called to a property on the 11000 block of Ettrick Street, near the Oakland Zoo. At the same time, officers received notice that the suspected burglar was experiencing a medical emergency, according to a statement from the Oakland Police Department cited by the Times.
After the struggle, Martin became unresponsive. Paramedics provided medical aid at the scene before he was taken to the hospital, where he later died.
The Alameda County coroner’s office has not yet formally released the name of the deceased. Officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, in line with department policy. The case is being investigated by the Oakland police homicide unit, internal affairs, the civilian-led Oakland Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County district attorney’s office.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where Martin spent the majority of his professional career, issued a statement: “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.”
Martin was selected 31st overall in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft and made an immediate impression, rushing for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns in his debut season. He earned Pro Bowl honours and a place on the NFL All-Rookie Team.
Though injuries hampered much of his career, Martin returned to form in 2015 with another 1,400-yard season, securing a second Pro Bowl selection and first-team All-Pro recognition. Over six seasons in Tampa Bay, he amassed 4,633 rushing yards, placing him fourth on the club’s all-time list, and scored 26 rushing touchdowns, ranking third in franchise history.
He concluded his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders in 2018.
At Boise State University, Martin was one of the programme’s most prolific running backs, rushing for 3,431 yards between 2007 and 2011, eighth on the school’s all-time list, and scoring 43 touchdowns, sixth in school history.
Martin’s death has left both the professional football community and Boise State mourning the loss of a player remembered for his consistency, resilience, and impact on the field.
