Ex-NFL star Doug Martin struggled with mental health before death at 36, relatives reveal

A relative of Doug Martin has revealed that he faced significant mental health challenges that affected his personal and professional life.

Martin’s family stated that they were actively seeking medical assistance for him before his death at the age of 36. A statement was released by Athletes First CEO Brian Murphy, who represented Martin’s family during his NFL career. It said:

“Privately, Doug battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life. Ultimately, mental illness proved to be the one opponent from which Doug could not run.”

The statement further added:

“Doug's parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support. 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.”

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How did former NFL star Doug Martin die?

Former NFL star Doug Martin passed away while in police custody in Oakland, California. The incident occurred on October 18, 2025, when the officers were investigating a reported break-in at a home.

According to the Oakland Police Department, the ex-football star died after being involved in a police confrontation. The paramedics arrived and took Martin to a hospital, where he was declared dead.

A statement released by Fox Sports, which read:

“It 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.”

Martin’s former team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, released a statement and said that they were “deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin.”

Doug Martin played for the Buccaneers for six seasons and was nicknamed the “Muscle Hamster” because of his high strength, despite his relatively short stature. He was known for his powerful running style and high endurance.

Recently, Martin’s family said in a statement that he battled mental health challenges. His parents added that they were seeking medical assistance for their son and had reached out to local authorities for support. They have requested privacy as they navigate through the loss.

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According to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, Martin was born in Oakland and raised in Stockton. He played college football at Boise State University in Boise, Idaho, before being selected in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft by Tampa Bay.

After playing for six seasons with the Buccaneers, he played a final season in the NFL with the Oakland Raiders. He was recognized as one of the top 50 players in the Buccaneers franchise history as part of the team’s 50th anniversary celebration.

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