Martin’s explosive runs included touchdown bursts of 70, 45, and 65 yards – a combination never before achieved in NFL history. The performance was so dominant that he scored all four touchdowns in just the first half, effectively ending the game before halftime.
For this historic performance, Martin earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors and cemented his status as one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons. Similar to how other elite athletes have left their mark on professional sports, such as basketball stars who’ve achieved greatness, Martin’s single-game dominance became legendary.
Breaking News: Doug Martin Dies at 36
Former NFL All-Pro running back Doug Martin has tragically passed away at the age of 36, his family confirmed on Saturday, October 19, 2025. The sudden and unexpected loss has sent shockwaves through the football community, as fans, former teammates, and organizations mourn the passing of one of the most electrifying running backs of his generation. Known affectionately as the “Muscle Hamster,” Martin’s impact on professional football and his legacy at both the NFL and collegiate levels will be remembered forever.
📋 Complete Tribute
- The Tragic Announcement & Cause of Death
- Who Was Doug Martin?
- Early Life & High School Career
- Boise State: The Birth of “Muscle Hamster”
- 2012 NFL Draft & Rookie Sensation
- The Historic 251-Yard Game
- NFL Career Highlights & Pro Bowls
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Legacy
- Homecoming: Oakland Raiders Season
- Career Statistics & Records
- Tributes Pour In From NFL Community
- Lasting Legacy & Impact
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Tragic Announcement: How Did Doug Martin Die?
Family Confirms Sudden Passing
On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Doug Martin’s family released a heartbreaking statement confirming his death. The statement, shared through Tampa Bay Times reporter Rick Stroud, read:
The cause of death remains unconfirmed as of this publication. No additional details have been released regarding the circumstances surrounding his passing. The family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time as they process this unexpected tragedy.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Official Statement
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where Martin spent six of his seven NFL seasons, released an emotional tribute on social media:
Like other professional athletes who’ve left us too soon, such as basketball players who’ve made lasting impacts, Martin’s legacy transcends statistics and will be remembered by fans worldwide.
Who Was Doug Martin? The Muscle Hamster Phenomenon
Douglas Martin was born on January 13, 1989, in Oakland, California, and grew up in Stockton, California. Despite standing at just 5-foot-9 and weighing 210-225 pounds, Martin became one of the most feared running backs in football through his unique combination of power, speed, and elusiveness.
The Origin of “Muscle Hamster”
Martin earned his legendary nickname “Muscle Hamster” during his time at Boise State University. His teammates gave him this moniker because of his incredibly muscular, compact build combined with his explosive speed and power – characteristics that belied his relatively small stature for an NFL running back.
The nickname perfectly captured Martin’s playing style: low to the ground, impossibly difficult to tackle, and capable of breaking through defensive lines like a battering ram despite his size disadvantage against larger defenders.
Early Life & High School Dominance
St. Mary’s High School Star
Martin attended St. Mary’s High School in Stockton, California, where he first showcased the talent that would eventually take him to the NFL. As a dual-sport athlete in football and track, Martin demonstrated exceptional versatility and athleticism.
Junior Year (2006): Rushed for 1,950 yards on 228 carries with 18 touchdowns, earning first-team all-selection and all-area honors from the Stockton Record and All-San Joaquin accolades from Comcast Sports.
Senior Year (2007): Rushed for 1,234 yards on 171 carries with 14 touchdowns, winning his team’s Most Valuable Player award.
Martin’s track and field prowess was equally impressive – he recorded a personal-best time of 11.15 seconds in the 100-meter dash as a senior, demonstrating the elite speed that would become a hallmark of his football career.
Boise State University: Building a Legend (2007-2011)
From Redshirt to Record-Breaker
Martin attended Boise State University from 2007 to 2011, redshirting his true freshman year in 2007 before exploding onto the scene in subsequent seasons. His college career statistics are nothing short of remarkable:
🏈 Boise State Career Statistics
(5th all-time BSU)
(3rd all-time BSU)
(6th all-time BSU)
(8th all-time BSU)
Season-by-Season Breakdown
2008 (Redshirt Freshman): Limited role with 107 rushing yards and 223 kick return yards, showing flashes of his potential.
2009 (Sophomore): Breakthrough season with 765 rushing yards and a team-leading 15 rushing touchdowns. Had multiple four-touchdown games against Utah State and New Mexico State. Boise State finished 14-0.
2010 (Junior): Led the team with 1,260 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. Added 338 receiving yards on 28 catches for 1,598 all-purpose yards. Named All-WAC First Team. Boise State again finished undefeated.
2011 (Senior): Career-best 1,299 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns. Named first-team All-Mountain West in Boise State’s first season in the conference. Won 2011 Las Vegas Bowl MVP after returning the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown and rushing for 151 yards and another score. Boise State finished ranked No. 7 in the final BCS rankings.
Historic Boise State Achievement
During Martin’s time with the Broncos, Boise State posted a remarkable 50-3 overall record and finished in the top-10 of the BCS rankings in four straight seasons (2008-2011), winning three conference titles. Martin was instrumental in this unprecedented success.
Prior to Heisman finalist Ashton Jeanty’s recent career, Martin was considered one of the greatest running backs in Boise State history. He remained in the school’s top-10 in virtually every rushing category and was the first Boise State running back ever drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft.
2012 NFL Draft: First Round Selection
Tampa Bay’s Bold Pick
On April 26, 2012, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Doug Martin with the 31st overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft, making him only the second running back taken that year and the first Boise State player ever drafted by the Buccaneers.
Martin signed a five-year contract worth $6.787 million with Tampa Bay on June 4, 2012. Many analysts questioned whether his 5-9 frame could withstand the punishment of NFL carries, but Martin was determined to prove his doubters wrong.
Immediate Impact as a Rookie
After an impressive preseason where he rushed for 97 yards on 27 carries with two touchdowns, Martin was officially named the Buccaneers’ starting running back by head coach Greg Schiano entering the 2012 regular season.
NFL Debut (September 9, 2012): In his first professional game against the Carolina Panthers, Martin rushed for 95 yards and added 23 receiving yards in a 16-10 victory, immediately showing he belonged at the highest level.
The following week against the New York Giants, Martin scored his first professional touchdown in a 41-34 loss, demonstrating the scoring ability that would define his career.
The Historic 251-Yard, 4-Touchdown Game
A Performance For The Ages
On November 4, 2012, in just his eighth NFL game, Doug Martin delivered one of the greatest individual performances in NFL history. Playing against the Oakland Raiders – coincidentally, his hometown team – Martin rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns in a dominant 42-32 road victory.
🏆 NFL Records Set in One Game:
- Tied NFL Record: Four rushing touchdowns in a single half
- First in NFL History: Touchdown runs of 70+, 45+, and 65+ yards in the same game
- Second Player Ever: 250+ rushing yards and 4 TDs in a game (joining Mike Anderson)
- Buccaneers Records: Most rushing yards (251) and touchdowns (4) in a single game
- Season High: 24 total points – most by any NFL player in a single game in 2012
Martin’s explosive runs included touchdown bursts of 70, 45, and 65 yards – a combination never before achieved in NFL history. The performance was so dominant that he scored all four touchdowns in just the first half, effectively ending the game before halftime.
For this historic performance, Martin earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors and cemented his status as one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
Record-Breaking Rookie Season
Martin’s 251-yard game was the exclamation point on an exceptional rookie campaign. By season’s end, his accomplishments included:
2012 Rookie Season Achievements:
- 1,454 rushing yards – Broke Buccaneers rookie rushing record (previously Cadillac Williams’ 1,178 yards)
- 11 rushing touchdowns – Franchise record for rookie RB
- 472 receiving yards – 49 receptions, 1 receiving TD
- 1,926 yards from scrimmage – 2nd in Buccaneers history behind James Wilder Sr.
- Pro Bowl selection – First rookie honor
- NFL All-Rookie Team – Unanimous selection
- NFL Rookie of the Year finalist – One of five finalists
- NFL Top 100 Players of 2013 – Ranked 57th by his peers
Martin’s 1,926 total yards from scrimmage ranked as the third-most by a rookie in NFL history at the time, trailing only legendary running backs Eric Dickerson (2,212 in 1983) and Edgerrin James (2,139 in 1999).
NFL Career Highlights & Pro Bowl Honors
The Struggle Years (2013-2014)
Following his spectacular rookie campaign, Martin faced adversity. In Week 2 of the 2013 season against the New Orleans Saints, he rushed for 144 yards on 29 carries, showing flashes of his rookie form. However, he suffered a shoulder injury against the Atlanta Falcons on October 20, 2013, which hampered his effectiveness.
Over the 2013 and 2014 seasons combined, Martin appeared in only 17 games total, struggling with injuries and inconsistent performance that left many wondering if his rookie season had been a fluke.
The Resurgence: 2015 All-Pro Season
In 2015, Doug Martin silenced all doubters with a spectacular comeback season that would define his legacy:
🌟 2015 All-Pro Season Statistics
(2nd in NFL)
Martin’s remarkable 2015 campaign earned him:
- Pro Bowl selection (Second career honor)
- Second-Team All-Pro honors
- NFC Offensive Player of the Month (November 2015)
- Ranked 7th on NFL Top 100 Players of 2016
This resurgence proved Martin was far more than a one-hit wonder. His 1,402 rushing yards trailed only Adrian Peterson (1,485 yards) for the NFL lead, showcasing his return to elite status.
2016 Contract Extension
Following his outstanding 2015 season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers rewarded Martin with a lucrative five-year contract extension worth $35.75 million with $15 million guaranteed on June 7, 2016.
Unfortunately, Martin’s 2016 season was marred by controversy when he received a three-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. He returned to finish the season with 421 rushing yards on 99 carries with three touchdowns in nine games.
2017 Comeback Attempt
In 2017, Martin attempted another comeback, appearing in seven games and rushing for 406 yards on 106 carries with one touchdown before suffering a concussion in a November 19 game against the Miami Dolphins that ended his season prematurely.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Legacy (2012-2017)
During his six seasons with the Buccaneers, Doug Martin became one of the most beloved players in franchise history. His combination of explosive plays, comeback resilience, and humble demeanor endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Career Totals:
- 4,317 rushing yards
- 21 rushing touchdowns
- 968 rushing attempts
- 4.5 yards per carry average
- 155 receptions for 1,217 receiving yards
- 5,534 yards from scrimmage
- Two Pro Bowl selections (2012, 2015)
- One Second-Team All-Pro honor (2015)
The Buccaneers recognized Martin’s contributions by naming him to the franchise’s “Top 50 Buccaneers of All-Time” list, a testament to his impact on the organization despite injuries limiting his time on the field.
Homecoming: Oakland Raiders Season (2018)
Returning to His Roots
On March 14, 2018, Martin signed with his hometown Oakland Raiders on a one-year contract, bringing his NFL career full circle. Growing up in the Bay Area and having delivered his historic 251-yard performance against Oakland in 2012, this signing held special meaning.
Martin appeared in five games for the Raiders during the 2018 season, rushing for 172 yards on 42 carries with one touchdown before being released on October 30, 2018.
This would prove to be Martin’s final NFL season. He never officially retired but was not signed by another team following his release from Oakland.
Complete NFL Career Statistics & Records
🏈 Doug Martin Complete NFL Career (2012-2018)
Rushing Yards
Touchdowns
Attempts
Carry Average
Scrimmage
Receptions
Individual Game Records
🏆 Doug Martin’s Most Memorable Performances:
- 251 rushing yards, 4 TDs vs. Oakland Raiders (November 4, 2012) – Franchise record
- 235 rushing yards vs. Philadelphia Eagles (November 22, 2015)
- 144 rushing yards vs. New Orleans Saints (September 15, 2013)
- 142 rushing yards vs. Chicago Bears (December 27, 2015)
- 100-yard kickoff return TD – 2011 Las Vegas Bowl (Boise State)
Honors and Recognition
- 2× Pro Bowl selection (2012, 2015)
- Second-Team All-Pro (2015)
- NFL All-Rookie Team (2012)
- NFC Offensive Player of the Week (Week 9, 2012)
- NFC Offensive Player of the Month (November 2015)
- Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week (multiple times, 2012)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Top 50 All-Time
- Boise State Hall of Fame candidate
Tributes Pour In From NFL Community
Former Teammates and Coaches Remember
News of Martin’s death prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from throughout the football world. Former teammates, coaches, and fans took to social media to share memories and condolences.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Official Statement:
“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.”
Boise State University Mourns
Boise State University, where Martin became a legend and earned his “Muscle Hamster” nickname, also released a statement mourning their former star:
“The Boise State football family is heartbroken by the news of Doug Martin’s passing. Doug was not just one of the greatest running backs in our program’s history – he was a beloved teammate, a humble champion, and a role model for countless young athletes. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Social Media Outpouring
Fans across the NFL, particularly in Tampa Bay and the Bay Area, shared their favorite Doug Martin memories on ESPN and other sports platforms. Many recalled his historic 251-yard game, while Buccaneers fans remembered his resilience and comeback seasons as examples of perseverance and determination.
The hashtag #RIPMuscleHamster trended on social media platforms as thousands of fans paid their respects to the fallen NFL star.
Doug Martin’s Lasting Legacy
More Than Statistics
While Doug Martin’s 4,489 career rushing yards and 22 touchdowns tell part of his story, his true legacy extends far beyond numbers. Martin embodied the spirit of overcoming adversity – from being undersized for his position to battling through injuries and setbacks to achieve All-Pro honors.
Inspiration to Undersized Players
At 5-foot-9, Martin proved that size doesn’t determine success in the NFL. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles despite giving up height and weight advantages to defenders inspired countless smaller running backs to pursue their dreams.
High school and college players across America looked to Martin as proof that determination, technique, and heart could overcome physical limitations. His “Muscle Hamster” nickname became synonymous with compact power and explosive speed.
Boise State Icon
Martin remains one of the most beloved figures in Boise State football history. His 3,431 rushing yards and 43 rushing touchdowns for the Broncos helped establish the program as a national power during their undefeated seasons.
He paved the way for future Boise State running backs to be taken seriously by NFL scouts, becoming the first running back from the program ever selected in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Tampa Bay Legend
In Tampa Bay, Martin will forever be remembered for his electric rookie season, his miraculous 2015 comeback, and his humble, hardworking approach to the game. His 251-yard performance against Oakland remains one of the greatest single-game performances in franchise history.
The Buccaneers’ decision to include Martin in their Top 50 players of all time, despite injuries limiting his career, speaks to the impact he made during his six seasons with the organization.
A Life Cut Short
At just 36 years old, Doug Martin’s death represents a tragic loss not just to football, but to everyone who knew him. Former teammates and coaches consistently described him as kind, humble, and dedicated – qualities that made him beloved beyond his on-field accomplishments.
As more details emerge about the circumstances of his passing, the football community continues to rally around Martin’s family, offering support during this impossibly difficult time.
Conclusion: Remembering the Muscle Hamster
Doug Martin’s legacy will live on in the hearts of football fans everywhere. From his explosive college career at Boise State to his Pro Bowl seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Martin consistently exceeded expectations and inspired others with his determination and skill.
His historic 251-yard, four-touchdown performance against Oakland will forever stand as one of the greatest individual games in NFL history. His comeback 2015 All-Pro season after years of struggle exemplified resilience and perseverance.
Most importantly, Doug Martin will be remembered as a genuinely good person who treated everyone with respect and humility. His impact on the sport, his teams, and the countless lives he touched cannot be measured in statistics alone.
Rest in peace, Muscle Hamster. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Doug Martin
As of this publication, Doug Martin’s cause of death remains unconfirmed. His family released a statement on October 19, 2025, confirming his passing on Saturday morning but noted that the cause of death had not yet been determined. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time. No additional details about the circumstances surrounding his death have been released to the public.
The circumstances of Doug Martin’s death have not been publicly disclosed. He passed away on Saturday morning, October 19, 2025, at the age of 36. His family confirmed his passing through Tampa Bay Times reporter Rick Stroud but emphasized that the cause of death was “currently unconfirmed.” Out of respect for his family’s privacy, speculation should be avoided until official information is released.
Doug Martin was known as the “Muscle Hamster”, a nickname he earned during his time at Boise State University. His teammates gave him this moniker because of his incredibly muscular, compact build (5-foot-9, 210-225 pounds) combined with his explosive speed and power. The nickname perfectly captured his playing style – low to the ground, difficult to tackle, and capable of breaking through defensive lines despite his relatively small size for an NFL running back.
Over seven NFL seasons (2012-2018), Doug Martin accumulated impressive statistics: 4,489 rushing yards on 1,010 carries (4.4 yards per carry average) with 22 rushing touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game with 161 receptions for 1,217 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown. His 5,706 total yards from scrimmage demonstrated his versatility. Martin’s single-game high of 251 rushing yards against Oakland in 2012 remains a Tampa Bay Buccaneers franchise record. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection (2012, 2015) and earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2015.
On November 4, 2012, in just his eighth NFL game, Doug Martin delivered one of the greatest individual performances in league history against the Oakland Raiders. He rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns in a 42-32 victory. Martin became the first player in NFL history to have touchdown runs of 70+, 45+, and 65+ yards in the same game. He tied the NFL record with four rushing touchdowns in a single half and set multiple Tampa Bay Buccaneers franchise records. This performance earned him NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors and remains one of the most dominant rushing performances in modern NFL history.
Doug Martin played college football at Boise State University from 2007 to 2011. After redshirting his freshman year in 2007, he became one of the program’s most prolific running backs. Over his career, Martin rushed for 3,431 yards (5th all-time at BSU) and 43 touchdowns (3rd all-time). During his time with the Broncos, Boise State posted a remarkable 50-3 overall record and finished in the top-10 of the BCS rankings four straight seasons. Martin was the first Boise State running back ever drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft when Tampa Bay selected him 31st overall in 2012.
Doug Martin played for two NFL teams during his seven-season career. He spent the majority of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012-2017), where he was drafted in the first round and played six seasons. During his time in Tampa Bay, he earned two Pro Bowl selections (2012, 2015) and Second-Team All-Pro honors (2015). Martin finished his career with his hometown Oakland Raiders (2018), appearing in five games before being released. The Raiders signing was particularly meaningful as Martin grew up in Oakland, California, and had delivered his historic 251-yard performance against them in 2012.
Doug Martin was born on January 13, 1989, in Oakland, California. He passed away on October 19, 2025, at the age of 36 years old. His sudden and unexpected death shocked the football community, as he was still relatively young and had only been retired from professional football for approximately seven years. Martin grew up in Stockton, California, attended St. Mary’s High School, and went on to become a star at both Boise State University and in the NFL.
