Doug Martin, a former All-Pro running back with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, died in police custody early Saturday morning following a reported break-in at a residence in Oakland, California. The Oakland Police Department confirmed the incident on Monday, stating that officers responded to a call about a break-in just after 4:15 a.m. and encountered Martin at the scene.
According to a statement from the Oakland Police Department, “Prior to his death, Martin was involved in a break-in at a residence in Oakland. While responding officers were attempting to detain him, a brief struggle occurred. After being taken into custody, Martin became unresponsive.” Paramedics arrived promptly, providing medical aid before transporting Martin to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Martin was 36 years old.
Family and Agency Statements
Athletes First, the agency that represented Martin during his time in the NFL, released a statement on Monday night highlighting Martin’s struggles with mental health issues, which they said had significantly affected his personal and professional life. The agency also shared that Martin’s family was actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support.
“Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support,” Athletes First stated. “Feeling overwhelmed and disoriented, Doug fled his home during the night and entered a neighbor’s residence two doors down, where he was taken into custody by police. An investigation into what transpired as he was detained is underway.”
Investigations Underway
The Oakland Police Department has initiated multiple investigations into the circumstances surrounding Martin’s death. Consistent with department policy, the in-custody death is being examined by the Homicide Section, OPD Internal Affairs Bureau, the Oakland City Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers, where Martin spent six of his seven NFL seasons, expressed their condolences and remembered him as a “fan favorite” who left “a lasting impact on our franchise.” Martin was honored as one of the top 50 players in franchise history during the team’s 50-year anniversary celebration.
Martin’s NFL Legacy
Standing at 5-foot-9, Martin was renowned for his powerful running style, earning him the nickname “Muscle Hamster.” Over his NFL career, he accumulated 5,356 yards and 30 touchdowns. Drafted in the first round by Tampa Bay in 2012, Martin quickly made his mark by rushing for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie season, complemented by 49 receptions for 472 yards and an additional score, securing a Pro Bowl selection.
Martin’s rookie season ranked third in NFL history for yards from scrimmage, trailing only Eric Dickerson and Edgerrin James.
His standout season came in 2015 when he earned All-Pro honors by rushing for 1,402 yards and six touchdowns, along with 33 receptions for 271 yards and another score. Martin concluded his career with the Oakland Raiders in 2018 after two more seasons with the Buccaneers.
A Storied College Career
A California native, Martin attended Boise State University from 2007 to 2011, where he was a standout performer. He ranks in the top 10 for career rushing yards and rushing touchdowns at the school and was a first-team all-conference honoree twice. His college success paved the way for his first-round selection in the NFL Draft, where he continued to build on his reputation as a formidable running back.
The announcement of Martin’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and reflection on his legacy both on and off the field. As investigations continue, questions remain about the circumstances leading up to his untimely death, with many hoping for a clearer understanding of the events that transpired.
