‘Muscle Hamster’ Doug Martin dies at 36: Buccaneers’ heartfelt statement; cause unconfirmed

Doug Martin, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back known as “Muscle Hamster,” has died at 36. His family said he passed away on Saturday morning and asked for privacy. The cause of death is unconfirmed.

The Buccaneers issued a heartfelt statement honoring Martin’s legacy. The team praised his record-setting rookie year and his multiple Pro Bowl selections. They extended condolences to his family, friends, and fans.

What the Buccaneers said about ‘Muscle Hamster’

The team said it was deeply saddened by Martin’s sudden passing. The statement highlighted his 2012 rookie season and his impact across six years in Tampa. It also noted he was recognized among the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time.

The message reflected how much Martin meant to the franchise and its supporters. It framed his career as a lasting part of team history.

Career highlights and records

Martin entered the NFL as the 31st overall pick in 2012 after starring at Boise State. He rushed for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie. That set a Buccaneers rookie rushing record and earned a Pro Bowl selection.

One game defined his breakout year. He ran for 251 yards and four touchdowns against the Raiders in November 2012. The performance remains one of the most memorable by a rookie running back.

Martin returned to elite form in 2015. He totaled 1,402 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns that season. He earned first-team All-Pro and made his second Pro Bowl.

Across seven NFL seasons, he rushed for 5,356 yards and 30 touchdowns. He added 1,207 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns. He played six seasons with Tampa Bay and one with the Raiders.

Tributes poured in from teammates, coaches, and fans. Many recalled his power, balance, and toughness. Others remembered how he energized Tampa Bay during difficult years.

Boise State also honored Martin as one of its greats. The family’s statement remains the only authoritative update on circumstances. The cause of death is still unconfirmed as of October 20, 2025.

Doug Martin’s legacy endures in Tampa and Boise. The “Muscle Hamster” tag captured his compact strength and relentless style. He is remembered as a fan favorite and a franchise great.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Did the Buccaneers issue a statement?

Yes. The team posted a public tribute highlighting his rookie record, Pro Bowls, and Top 50 recognition.

Q2: Is the cause of death known?

No. The family said the cause is unconfirmed and requested privacy.

Q3: What were his best seasons?

2012 and 2015. He set the team’s rookie rushing record in 2012 and earned All-Pro in 2015.

Q4: How many career rushing yards did he have?

5,356 rushing yards with 30 rushing touchdowns in the NFL.

Q5: Why was he called “Muscle Hamster”?

The nickname referenced his compact, powerful build and explosive running style.

References (plain text only)

Tampa Bay Times (2025). Former Buc Doug Martin dead at 36; cause ‘unconfirmed,’ family says. Oct. 19, 2025.

NBC Sports/ProFootballTalk (2025). Former NFL running back Doug Martin dies at 36. Oct. 19, 2025.

Sports Illustrated (2025). Former Buccaneers RB Doug Martin Dies at Age 36. Oct. 19, 2025.

Yahoo Sports (2025). Former Buccaneers running back Doug Martin dies at 36. Oct. 19, 2025.

Boise State Athletics (2025). Doug Martin Passes Away at 36. Oct. 19, 2025.