Former Raider Doug Martin passes away

While NFL was dominating the public eye on Sunday, the sport received a piece of tragic news.

In a statement presented by his family, former Oakland Raiders running back Doug Martin passed away at the age of 36.

“The Raiders Family was saddened to learn of the recent passing of Doug Martin,” the Raiders said in a released statement.

“A native of Stockton, Calif., Martin joined the Silver and Black in 2018 after six seasons in Tampa Bay, and he led the Raiders with 723 rushing yards that season. A two-time Pro Bowl selection out of Boise State, Martin rushed for over 5,000 yards with 30 touchdowns in his pro career. The condolences of the entire Raider Nation are with Doug’s family at this time.”

Martin entered into the national spotlight at Boise State University, ranking in the top ten in terms of career rushing yards and touchdowns.

His successful collegiate career made Martin a first round pick in 2012, when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him with the 31st overall pick. Known for his punishing style despite his five-foot-nine frame, Martin quickly earned the nickname ‘Muscle Hamster.’ He burst on the scene in his rookie season, making the Pro Bowl in 2012 with 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground in his rookie year.

Martin’s best season was in 2015, when he earned the only All-Pro nod of his career with 1,402 rushing yards and six touchdowns.

He would play two more seasons in Tampa Bay before joining the Oakland Raiders in 2018, playing one season with them before retiring.

NFL fans and fantasy football players alike will remember Martin’s unique running style and strong stretch of production as one of the better dual-threat running backs of the 2010s.

Condolences go out to Martin’s family in this trying time.