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31 Facts About Doug Martin

Lexi Gillis

Written by Lexi Gillis

Published: 31 Oct 2025

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Newsweek.com

Doug Martin, also known as the "Muscle Hamster," is a name that resonates with football fans. But who is he beyond the gridiron? Doug Martin is a former NFL running back who played primarily for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his explosive speed and agility, he made a significant impact during his rookie season. But there's more to Doug Martin than just his football career. Did you know he was a standout athlete in high school, excelling in multiple sports? Or that he overcame numerous injuries to make a comeback in the NFL? Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just curious about this dynamic athlete, these 31 facts will give you a deeper look into Doug Martin's life, career, and the challenges he faced along the way.

Table of Contents
01Early Life and Background
02College Career
03NFL Draft and Early Professional Career
04Career Highlights and Achievements
05Personal Life and Interests
06Later Career and Retirement
07The Final Whistle

Early Life and Background

Doug Martin, a name synonymous with football excellence, has a fascinating background that shaped his career. Let's dive into some interesting facts about his early life.

  1. Born in Oakland, California: Doug Martin entered the world on January 13, 1989, in Oakland, California. This city is known for its rich sports culture, which likely influenced his athletic pursuits.

  2. High School Star: Martin attended St. Mary's High School in Stockton, California. He excelled in both football and track, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.

  3. Nickname "Muscle Hamster": Despite his dislike for it, Martin was nicknamed "Muscle Hamster" due to his compact, muscular build and relentless playing style.

  4. College Choice: He chose to play college football at Boise State University, a decision that would set the stage for his professional career.

  5. Track and Field: In high school, Martin was not just a football star. He also competed in track and field, particularly in the long jump and sprinting events.

College Career

Doug Martin's college career at Boise State University was nothing short of spectacular. Here are some key highlights.

  1. Redshirt Freshman Year: Martin redshirted his freshman year in 2007, giving him time to develop his skills and adapt to college-level football.

  2. Breakout Season: In 2009, Martin had his breakout season, rushing for 765 yards and 15 touchdowns, making a name for himself in college football.

  3. MVP Honors: He earned MVP honors in the 2011 Maaco Bowl Las Vegas after rushing for 151 yards and a touchdown against Arizona State.

  4. Senior Year Stats: During his senior year, Martin rushed for 1,299 yards and 16 touchdowns, solidifying his status as a top NFL prospect.

  5. All-Mountain West: He was named to the All-Mountain West First Team in both 2010 and 2011, recognizing his outstanding performance on the field.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Doug Martin's transition to the NFL was eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike. Let's explore his early professional journey.

  1. First-Round Pick: Martin was selected in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 31st overall.

  2. Rookie Season: His rookie season was phenomenal, rushing for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection.

  3. Historic Game: In a game against the Oakland Raiders in 2012, Martin rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns, setting a franchise record.

  4. Pro Bowl Selection: His outstanding rookie season earned him a spot in the 2013 Pro Bowl, a rare achievement for a first-year player.

  5. Injury Setback: Martin's 2013 season was cut short due to a shoulder injury, limiting him to just six games.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Doug Martin's career is filled with numerous highlights and achievements that showcase his talent and determination.

  1. Comeback Player of the Year: In 2015, Martin bounced back from injuries to rush for 1,402 yards, earning him the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.

  2. Second Pro Bowl: His stellar 2015 season also earned him a second Pro Bowl selection, further cementing his status as one of the league's top running backs.

  3. Top 100 Players: Martin was ranked 33rd on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016 list, a testament to his impact on the field.

  4. Franchise Records: He holds several Tampa Bay Buccaneers franchise records, including the most rushing yards in a single game and the most rushing touchdowns in a single game.

  5. Contract Extension: In 2016, Martin signed a five-year, $35.75 million contract extension with the Buccaneers, reflecting the team's confidence in his abilities.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the gridiron, Doug Martin has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Let's take a closer look.

  1. Family Man: Martin is known for his close relationship with his family, often crediting them for his success and motivation.

  2. Philanthropy: He is actively involved in charitable work, including supporting causes related to children's health and education.

  3. Fitness Enthusiast: Martin's dedication to fitness extends beyond football. He enjoys various forms of exercise, including weightlifting and yoga.

  4. Travel Lover: He loves to travel and explore new places, often sharing his adventures on social media.

  5. Dog Lover: Martin is a proud dog owner and often shares pictures of his furry companions, showcasing his love for animals.

Later Career and Retirement

Doug Martin's later career and eventual retirement marked the end of an era for a player who left a lasting impact on the NFL.

  1. Raiders Stint: In 2018, Martin signed with the Oakland Raiders, returning to his hometown to continue his career.

  2. Solid Performance: During his time with the Raiders, Martin rushed for 723 yards and four touchdowns, proving he still had plenty left in the tank.

  3. Final Season: Martin's final NFL season was in 2019, after which he decided to retire from professional football.

  4. Post-Retirement Plans: Since retiring, Martin has focused on his family, personal interests, and philanthropic efforts.

  5. Legacy: Martin's legacy in the NFL is defined by his resilience, work ethic, and memorable performances on the field.

  6. Inspiration: He continues to inspire young athletes with his story of perseverance and dedication, proving that hard work and determination can lead to success.

The Final Whistle

Doug Martin's journey through the NFL is nothing short of fascinating. From his early days at Boise State to his standout seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Martin's career is filled with memorable moments. Known for his explosive speed and agility, he earned the nickname "Muscle Hamster," a testament to his powerful yet compact frame. Despite facing injuries and setbacks, Martin's resilience and determination kept him in the game. His Pro Bowl appearances and impressive rushing yards highlight his talent and hard work. Off the field, Martin's dedication to community service and his humble nature make him a role model for aspiring athletes. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just curious about sports, Doug Martin's story offers inspiration and a reminder of what perseverance can achieve. His legacy in the NFL will be remembered for years to come.

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