Fans honored former Boise State running back Doug Martin as he passed away on Saturday morning at age 36, with FOX reporter Greg Auman among the first to report his death. Martin played for the Broncos from 2007 to 2011.
Martin was a two-time first-team all-conference selection and remains in the top 10 in several Boise State rushing records, and was the first Bronco RB to be drafted in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft.
How Did Fans React to Doug Martin’s Sudden Death?
Martin became unresponsive on Saturday following his arrest by Oakland police, according to KTVU Channel 2. He reportedly experienced an “unspecified medical emergency” and died while in police custody.
“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” Martin’s family said in a statement (via Fox Sports). “Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”
Shortly after the news, Boise State honored Martin in a social media tribute.
“Rest in peace to a Bronco legend. You will be missed,” the school tweeted.
Rest in peace to a Bronco legend. You will be missed.
📰 https://t.co/LpLaR9GJNn pic.twitter.com/4bLvZX5J9m
— Boise State Football (@BroncoSportsFB) October 19, 2025
Fans reacted to the news of Martin’s tragic death, with one fan sharing a video of Martin scoring the go-ahead touchdown in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl against #3 TCU, helping Boise State finish an undefeated season.
Doug Martin scored the go-ahead touchdown in the Fiesta Bowl to beat #3 TCU and secure Boise State an undefeated season in 2009 pic.twitter.com/BJNlOxcoZz
— Autumn 11 College Football (@Autumn_Eleven) October 19, 2025
“I got to have a lot of fun interactions with him during his time at Boise State. I’m genuinely deeply sad about this. What a tragic loss,” a fan posted.
“So sad to hear of the death of Doug Martin. Remembering back to 2012 (I think) of the players from BSU selected for the Senior Bowl in Mobile AL. We met Doug Martin at a pr event. Doug was such a refreshingly polite and genuine person. RIP and condolences to his family,” another fan wrote.
“What? I met his mom years ago. Nice lady. Prayers to them,” one added.
“A legend. RIP muscle hamster,” another fan wrote.
“Doug seemed like a really great person. Enjoyed being on campus at the same time as him, and following his pro career. What a sad loss. RIP 😞,” a person said.
Besides the fans, Boise State alumni and Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty also paid a heartfelt tribute via Instagram.
Affectionately called ‘Muscle Hamster’ by his Broncos teammates, Martin recorded consecutive 1,200-yard seasons to end his college career and finished with 3,431 rushing yards, which ranks eighth in Boise State history
Martin’s 43 touchdowns rank sixth, and his 617 carries is ninth in Boise State history. After playing at Boise State, he was selected as the No. 31 pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2012 NFL Draft.
He spent six seasons with the Bucs before signing a one-year contract with the Oakland Raiders.
