In an interview with Rick Stroud, Bucs GM Jason Licht was not one bit shy when he pointed the finger at the Buccaneers’ veteran running back, Doug Martin. Why would Licht hold his tongue? Martin received a big contract extension after coming in second in the league in rushing yards a few years back, to thank the Bucs, Martin got himself suspended for P.E.D.
Martin was never the same, and many may go as far as to say that he hasn’t been the same since first becoming injured following his amazing rookie season. Disregarding his 2015 season when he was atop the NFL. Six seasons, with four of them under 500 yards and two of them over 1400 yards, has allowed ample time for Doug Martin to get back into the swing of things. He simply has not been able to get his groove back.
Despite tremendous amounts of fan love for Doug Martin, including my own, it’s time to cut our losses. Looking back at his stats you can see that post-2012 have been nothing to brag about. (Again disregarding his 2015 season) With only 26 total rushing TD’s in six seasons and only 2 receiving, it is time for the next man to step up. I have defended Doug Martin until I was blue in the face and my fingertips callused from the countless times I’ve had to argue his worth online. I have to give my fingers a rest.
Licht argued but did not make it an excuse that this season Martin had a hard time getting the run game going due to the fact that he was not the same Martin as before. I agree, however, Martin has not been Martin for a long time. I believe that Barber is the new Sheriff in town and have faith that he will step up to the plate and be the back we need. He is more than capable. Allowing Barber the chance to start next season leaves the option to trade Doug Martin. If anyone is willing to risk the deal.
The 2018 draft is quickly throwing its shadow upon us and there is no doubt in my mind that the first round through the second, and even on to the third, will be nothing but defense. If it is anything else, then I will be agog with shock that we can be so boneheaded. (Disregarding the Aguayo fiasco).
So the short and skinny is: There is no reason to keep Doug Martin. Trade him now, and if no one bites, cut him. It’s not an opinion. It’s a fact.
Edited By: Morgan Adele
