The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost one of the franchise's most beloved players over the weekend. Former All-Pro running back Doug Martin died at the age of 36, cutting short the life of a player who tried to do as much off the field as he did on it.
Martin was nothing short of electric on the field during his six seasons with the Bucs. Drafted in the first round back in 2012, he went on to have a rookie season for the ages, where he set a new single-season franchise rushing record that saw him pass Cadillac Williams for most yards by a rookie running back.
He ran that success back two years later after bouncing back from back-to-back years of injuries holding him back. Martin finished the 2015 season with 1,402 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, something that earned him a second Pro Bowl selection and All-Pro honors.
Buccaneers release statement after unexpected death of Doug Martin
Following confirmation of his death on Sunday, the Bucs released a heartfelt statement of remembrance for Martin.
"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," the team said in its statement. "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."
Martin joins an unfathomably tragic category: Buccaneers players from the 2013 team who have died before the age of 40.
That's four members of the 2013 Bucs team that have died before they got to 40: Doug Martin just yesterday at 36, Vincent Jackson at 38, Mike Williams at 35 and Daniel Te'o-Nesheim at age 30. Such a sad concentration of loss.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) October 19, 2025
He was dubbed the Muscle Hamster thanks to his stocky stature and instantly danced his way into the hearts of fans desperate for something to enjoy about the team. His time with the Bucs came at one of the darkest periods in franchise history, but he remains one of the brightest lights to shine through it all.
When news of his death made the rounds on social media, almost every Bucs fan shared some sort of memory about watching him play. No two memories were exactly the same, which gives a nice little glimpse into how much he meant to fans -- and will forever mean to them.