The former NFL running back, once a crowd favorite at just 36 years of age, reportedly died in police custody this Sunday. Agent Brian Murphy of Athletes First has now come forward and made public statements, producing strange facts of the personal turmoil of the past few years of Martin before his unfortunate demise.

As posted by Ian Rapport on X, NFL insider, “A statement on the passing of Doug Martin, with his agent Brian Murphy of @AthletesFirst offering clarity and perspective”

Murphy and Athletes First issued a statement on Monday, recounting what transpired before Martin’s demise. “Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support,” the statement read.

The release went on to say that Martin had been “battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life,” depicting the picture of a man whose personal crisis was the reverse of the public image of one of football’s most flamboyant young stars.

Murphy emphasized that the family released the statement so they could be clear and respectful while speculating over Martin’s final minutes. It also stated that Doug was very dear to his family and closest friends. They request privacy and sensitivity as the investigation continues. It highlighted the human toll of Martin’s deterioration, a sickening reminder that even sports icons at the height of contemporary popularity can be struggling.

The Oakland Police report officers arrived at a reported burglary at a home shortly after 4:15 a.m. Saturday. When they arrived, they found Martin and tried to arrest him, engaging in a reported short fight while doing so.

Just after the arrest, Martin fell unconscious. Paramedics took care of him, and he was pronounced dead. The Oakland Police Department has confirmed that an investigation is underway.

His sudden demise has shocked the NFL world. Greg Auman shared his condolences on X: “It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning. Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”

Martin’s NFL journey

Even though tragedy in Martin’s death highlights the mental problems that can result from living life on the football circuit, his playing career is one of the most legendary in the history of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Picked 31st in 2012 out of Boise State, Martin wasn’t long in leaving his mark. As a first-year player, he had 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns, along with another 472 in receiving yards. The breakout campaign was topped off by a Pro Bowl and the label of being one of the most talented young backs in the league.

His 2015 season cemented his place among the league’s best backs. Rushing 1,402 and adding 271 on air, he was a first-team All-Pro and second in the league in rushing, behind Adrian Peterson. It is the most descriptive season of offenses in Buccaneers history.

In his seven-year NFL career, spent six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Martin accumulated 5,356 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns. In his final season in 2018, he played for the Oakland Raiders, bringing to a close a cycle of his career, which began in his home state of California. The Buccaneers listed him among the team’s greatest 50 players for their 50th-anniversary celebration, calling him a “fan favorite.”

Before his NFL stardom, Martin had a highly successful college career at Boise State with the Broncos from 2007 to 2011. He is a school all-time rushing yards and rushing touchdowns leader and was a two-time first-team All-Conference pick.