OAKLAND, Calif., 21 October (H.S.): Doug Martin, the acclaimed former NFL running back who spent six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has died at the age of 36. His death occurred on Saturday while he was in the custody of the Oakland Police Department.

According to a statement from law enforcement, officers responded to an alleged home break-in. During the attempt to detain the individual, identified as Martin, a brief struggle ensued. Officials reported that Martin became unresponsive and was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Martin's family confirmed his passing in a statement to the media, noting that his cause of death remains unconfirmed at this time. The family has requested privacy as they navigate their loss.The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team that selected Martin in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft, expressed deep sadness over the news. From his record-setting rookie season in 2012 to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer, Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise, the team stated.

Martin's career began with a sensational rookie year, where he rushed for 1,454 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. Despite his 5ft 9in stature, his power on the field earned him the nickname Muscle Hamster. His tenure in the league also included challenges, such as injuries and a four-game suspension in 2016 for a substance-abuse policy violation, for which he sought treatment.

He concluded his professional career in 2018 after a season with the Oakland Raiders.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar