The sports world was rocked last October when former All-Pro running back Doug Martin tragically passed away while in police custody. As investigations continue into the cause of his death, newly released footage sheds light on what might have been his final moments.
The video, a combination of police body cam and RING doorbell footage, reveals Martin in a state of distress, fleeing from police and attempting to enter a private residence. His actions were erratic, and he appeared to be talking to himself.
As police caught up with him, they detained Martin, who began to scream as he was handcuffed. Heartbreakingly, he became unresponsive while being restrained and was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.
Reports indicate that Martin experienced an unspecified “medical emergency.”
His family has since spoken out, sharing that Martin had long battled mental health issues and was feeling particularly overwhelmed and disoriented on the night of the incident.
Doug Martin’s football career was marked by explosive talent and resilience. At Boise State University, from 2008 to 2011, he established himself as a powerhouse, amassing over 3,400 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns. His senior year was particularly impressive, earning him first-team All-Mountain West honors and a standout performance in the 2011 Las Vegas Bowl, where he rushed for 147 yards and a touchdown, enhancing his draft prospects.
Drafted 31st overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2012, Martin quickly made his mark. Dubbed the “Muscle Hamster,” he delivered a remarkable rookie season with 1,454 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, including a legendary 251-yard, four-touchdown game against the Oakland Raiders-a performance for the ages. Despite injuries that slowed him down over the next couple of seasons, Martin bounced back in 2015 with another Pro Bowl-worthy year, rushing for 1,402 yards.
After six seasons with Tampa Bay, Martin joined the Oakland Raiders in 2018, where he enjoyed a solid comeback year before retiring. Over his NFL career, he accumulated more than 5,300 rushing yards and earned two Pro Bowl selections, securing his legacy as one of the Buccaneers’ most productive running backs of the 2010s.