Doug Martin has seemingly been on the outs in Tampa Bay for a couple of years now, but maybe most everyone spoke too soon. The Bucs have nothing but Charles Sims and Bobby Rainey at the position besides the Muscle Hamster, and those giving the job to Sims might be presuming too much.
This article in the Tampa Bay Times says "Martin must lead the way" for the team to have success with the ground game. And it sounds like it might be correct.
Sims was an excellent pass catching back in college, but that might be his best role for the Bucs -- third-down back. Rainey has had some nice games but flopped with his chance at a leading role a year ago; he's not really suited to play full-time.
Martin has been a disappointment since his rookie season, to be sure, but that one great year counts for a lot. He could be the lead back in this offense; probably will be.
He's unlikely to play full-time (and led by a rookie quarterback, this might not be a good offense anyway). But if you're looking for a starting running back available in the middle rounds, don't forget Martin.
--Andy Richardson