“Privately, Doug battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life. Ultimately, mental illness proved to be the one opponent from which Doug could not run,” the statement read, which was released through Martin’s agent Brian Murphy of Athletes First.

Doug Martin 's family is shedding more light on the ex-NFL star's death ... revealing the 36-year-old privately struggled with mental health issues over the years -- and they were actively trying to get him help prior to his passing.

Ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin battled mental-health issues and his relatives were seeking medical assistance before he died, the family said.

Former NFL running back Doug Martin, 36, died Saturday. While Oakland police are investigating the matter, Martin's family offered new details Monday.