Doug Martin Cause of Death Status: What Police and Family Have Revealed So Far

Former NFL running back Doug Martin’s cause of death remains unknown, days after his shocking passing while in police custody in Oakland, California. The 36-year-old ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers star, known as the “Muscle Hamster,” died early Saturday morning, leaving behind unanswered questions about what happened in his final hours.

Authorities confirmed that Martin became unresponsive shortly after being detained, while his family shared that he had been struggling with severe mental health issues in the weeks leading up to his death. His official cause of death has yet to be disclosed pending further investigation and toxicology results.

Police and Family Statements on Doug Martin’s Death

According to the Oakland Police Department, officers were responding to reports of a break-in when they encountered Martin early Saturday. “While attempting to detain him, a brief struggle occurred,” police said. “After being taken into custody, Martin became unresponsive.” He was pronounced dead around 4:15 a.m. local time.

In a statement released by Athletes First CEO Brian Murphy on behalf of the Martin family, relatives revealed the former All-Pro running back had been battling mental illness and recently sought treatment. “Privately, Doug battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life,” the statement read. “Ultimately, mental illness proved to be the one opponent from which Doug could not run.”

The family said they had contacted authorities seeking medical help for Martin after he fled his home in a distressed state and entered a neighbor’s residence. The incident led to his detention by police, during which he later became unresponsive.

Details of Doug Martin’s Final Months

Reports from The San Francisco Chronicle indicated that Martin had entered a Northern California rehabilitation center in August, where he tested positive for cocaine and methamphetamine. During his stay, he allegedly experienced a psychotic episode, jumped from a second-story window, and was placed on a 72-hour psychiatric hold.

Investigators have not yet released toxicology findings from his death, and the Alameda County medical examiner’s office has not announced an official cause. However, The Mercury News confirmed that Martin’s brain is being preserved for further study to determine whether he may have suffered from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a condition caused by repeated head trauma often seen in former football players.

Reactions From Former Teammates and NFL Community

Martin’s former Tampa Bay teammate Gerald McCoy shared an emotional tribute, highlighting the mental health struggles many athletes face post-retirement. “Your identity has been tied to this game, and when it’s over, you don’t even know who you are as a person,” McCoy told The Athletic. “It’s tougher on us when we’re done playing than people think. Mental illness is a real thing, and people struggle mentally after playing this game.”

Fans and former teammates across the NFL have since expressed grief and frustration, calling for more support systems for retired athletes dealing with mental health and substance recovery challenges. Martin’s death has reignited debate around the psychological toll of professional sports and how teams can better support players after retirement.

As the investigation continues, police have not indicated any signs of foul play. Doug Martin’s family has asked for privacy and patience while awaiting official results. His cause of death remains pending as authorities complete toxicology testing and internal review.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Doug Martin’s cause of death?

The official cause of death has not yet been released. Authorities are awaiting toxicology results and autopsy findings.

Q2: Was Doug Martin suffering from mental health issues?

Yes. His family confirmed that he had been struggling with mental health challenges and was recently under psychiatric care.

Q3: Did Doug Martin have CTE?

CTE can only be diagnosed post-mortem. His brain has been preserved for study to determine whether he suffered from the disease.

Q4: What did police say about Doug Martin’s final moments?

Police said he became unresponsive after being detained following a brief struggle during a break-in call response.

Q5: Which teams did Doug Martin play for in the NFL?

He played primarily for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and later joined the Oakland Raiders before retiring in 2019.