Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mourn Doug Martin as Third Teammate from 2010s Era to Die Young

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers All-Pro running back Doug Martin has died at age 36. His passing marks the third tragic death of a prominent Buccaneers player from the 2012-2016 team roster. The news was confirmed by his family, sending shockwaves through the NFL community.

Fans and journalists immediately recalled his teammates, Mike Williams and Vincent Jackson, who also died young. This concentration of loss has left the Buccaneers organization and its supporters grieving once again. The cause of Martin’s death is not yet publicly known.

A Trio of Tragic Losses for Buccaneers Faithful

The deaths have occurred within a few years of each other. Mike Williams, a wide receiver, died in September 2023 at age 35. According to reports from the medical examiner, his death resulted from dental-related sepsis following a construction accident.

Vincent Jackson was found deceased in a Florida hotel in February 2021. He was 38 years old. Officials ruled his death was caused by chronic alcohol abuse, though his family has suggested a link to CTE from his football career.

Fans and Media Remember a Bygone Era

The reaction on social media has been one of collective mourning and disbelief. Fans who cheered for the trio during their playing days are struggling to process the news. The sense of a “cursed” roster from that specific period has become a common sentiment online.

Fox Sports journalist Greg Auman noted the grim tally on social media. He pointed out that four members of the 2013 Buccaneers team have now died before turning 40. This has highlighted the profound and personal impact on the team’s community.

The untimely passing of Doug Martin has brought a wave of sadness, reminding everyone of the fragile nature of life. His legacy, alongside Jackson and Williams, is now permanently intertwined in Buccaneers history. The team’s community continues to mourn these stars gone too soon.

Thought you’d like to know

What was Doug Martin’s cause of death?

The cause of Doug Martin’s death has not been publicly released. His family confirmed his passing but has not disclosed specific details surrounding it.

How did Vincent Jackson die?

Vincent Jackson’s death was ruled as chronic alcohol use by the medical examiner. His family has also indicated he suffered from CTE, a brain disease linked to head trauma in football.

How did Mike Williams die?

Mike Williams died from complications of a construction accident. The medical examiner reported he developed a fatal sepsis infection following injuries sustained at a work site.

How old was Doug Martin when he died?

Doug Martin was 36 years old at the time of his death. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection during his NFL career.

Why are fans connecting these three deaths?

Fans are connecting the deaths because Martin, Williams, and Jackson were key offensive players for the Buccaneers from 2012 to 2014. Their consecutive untimely passings have deeply affected the fanbase that watched them play together.