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It seems that Doug Martin is finally ready to get back into the swing of things. With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offseason workout program starting in a week, Martin took to Twitter to post some generic inspirational message.
"Never forget your past, it's the foundation that built your existence and the secret to your future." pic.twitter.com/vEFav8ecz5
— Doug Martin (@DougMartin22) April 7, 2017
Usually, that wouldn’t be news. It’s not really news now, either, but it’s the first we’ve heard from Martin since the running back entered a treatment facility for a drug addiction at the end of last season. That addiction had led to a four-game suspension, three games of which he’ll serve at the start of the 2017 season.
The Bucs have been rather non-committal on how they see Martin’s future role with the team. They were clear they expected him to participate in all offseason workouts and he’s past his issues, as far as they’re concerned. But that three-game suspension as well as Martin’s general history make matters more complicated.
Even before his suspension it was impossible to tell how well Martin would play every year, and injuries have been a constant concern. The Bucs running back played some terrible football last season. Making matters worse is the fact that he’s set to earn $7 million this season, though none of that is guaranteed and the Bucs aren’t in any need of cap space.
Still, with Jacquizz Rodgers, Peyton Barber and Charles Sims on the roster, as well as a 2017 NFL draft filled with talented running backs, the Bucs could easily move on from their former star back.
So here’s a question for you: should the Buccaneers keep Doug Martin?