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HEART BREAKING: The NFL’s star running back battled mental illness and cocaine & fentanyl addiction before his tragic passing — Chiefs head coach Andy Reid sends heartfelt condolences to his family and the Buccaneers.

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The NFL community continues to mourn the heartbreaking loss of Doug Martin, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back whose strength, determination, and explosive play defined a generation of fans. Martin, just 35 years old, tragically passed away this week after years of battling mental health struggles and substance abuse involving cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.

Reports from the San Francisco Chronicle revealed that only two months before his death, Martin had been placed in a psychiatric facility following a drug-induced psychotic episode. On the day of his passing, authorities said Martin appeared distressed and disoriented, entering a neighbor’s home before a confrontation with police led to his collapse. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. His brain is currently being examined for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) — a degenerative brain disease tied to repeated head trauma during his NFL career.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks ahead of Monday night's game against  Washington

As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from players, coaches, and fans across the league. Among them, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid expressed his deep sorrow and respect for Martin’s legacy, issuing a heartfelt message:

“Doug was one of those players who represented everything great about football — toughness, discipline, and a love for the game that inspired everyone around him. His battles off the field remind us that even our strongest heroes face struggles we don’t always see. On behalf of the Kansas City Chiefs, I want to extend our deepest condolences to Doug’s family and to the entire Buccaneers organization. We’re keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

Martin’s legacy remains powerful. Drafted in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, he became a cornerstone for the Buccaneers, earning two Pro Bowl selections and delivering one of the most impressive rookie seasons in franchise history with over 1,400 rushing yards. His nickname — “The Muscle Hamster” — became a symbol of relentless energy and heart.

This week’s matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New Orleans Saints will begin with a moment of silence in Martin’s honor, as players and fans unite in remembrance of a true warrior. Saints head coach Kellen Moore also shared a message of compassion, saying:

“We stand together as one NFL family. Doug’s spirit, his passion, and his fight will never be forgotten.”

Coach Reid’s closing words captured the sentiment shared by millions:

“The game will move on, but Doug’s legacy — his fight, his heart, and his humanity — will live forever. Rest in peace, champ.”

🌹 Rest in peace, Doug Martin — forever a fighter, forever a part of the NFL family.

Tre'von Moehrig Lavishes Praise on the One Who Replaced Him in His Absence
Can you believe it? A veteran star of the Carolina Panthers, Tre'von Moehrig, was suspended for a notorious "punch below the belt," but instead of being jealous, he's showering praise on his "replacement"! What's going on with this team? Read now for the "hot off the press" details from Week 13! The Carolina Panthers just caused an earthquake by defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, despite missing a slew of key players. Under the "wizardry" of head coach Dave Canales, the team showcased incredible resilience. But the real spotlight belongs to Tre'von Moehrig – the Panthers' top safety, who's sidelined due to a suspension after punching wide receiver Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers below the belt. Yet, instead of sulking, Moehrig watched from home and... "went wild" over the performance of the rookie who stepped in for him! That's none other than Lathan Ransom, the young gun selected in the 4th round of the draft, who "stole" Moehrig's spot and turned it into his own stage. Ransom not only led the team with 11 tackles but also made his mark with a "top-notch" sack! Moehrig, with his wealth of experience, couldn't hide his excitement: "Man, I was hype (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see it all as the play was happening. I was like, Oh, there you go. I could see it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. Sky's the limit for him." (Translation: "Oh man, I was so hyped (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see everything as the play unfolded. I was like, Oh, there you go. I saw it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. The sky's the limit for him." This "sweet as honey" praise from Moehrig not only affirms Ransom's talent but also raises the question: Is this "replacement" threatening the starting positions of Moehrig and Nick Scott – the current starting safety duo? Panthers fans have been "whispering" about this for a while, after witnessing Ransom shine in summer practices and his flashy cameo appearances. With this impressive performance, Ransom is sure to get more opportunities, especially as the Panthers are "heating up" in the race for the NFC South championship! At 23 years old, Ransom is seen as a "rough diamond" with explosive potential, thanks to the Panthers' sharp personnel strategy. And Moehrig? This guy was signed as a "bargain" from the free agent market, and his leadership and positive attitude have completely transformed the team's defense in just his first season. That influence is spreading strongly to Ransom – the kid who shares many similarities and is gradually "transforming" into a future star. But that's not all – the lesson from Moehrig is accelerating the "youth revolution" at the Panthers! With this public praise, Moehrig isn't just acknowledging Ransom's growth but also igniting ambition for the entire team. Will the Panthers continue to "soar high" with this new generation? Don't miss out – follow now for the next drama in the NFL!