According to the Senior Writer for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Scott Smith, the Bucs have placed injured running back Doug Martin on injured reserve. Martin had injured his shoulder weeks ago but the team and Martin had held out hope he could return. This move officially ends the season for Martin, which is the best move for his long term viability.
Martin finished the season with 127 carries for 456 yards and a touchdown rushing with 12 receptions for 66 yards receiving. The 0-8 Bucs are preparing to take on the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football and with no chance of making the playoffs as well as a head coach that is widely believed to be on the hot seat with the likelihood that he will be fired at some point, possibly during the season. The Bucs and Martin made the smart move by not putting Martin’s shoulder at further risk of injury or just putting more wear and tear on his body this year considering their place in the standings. Martin can come back completely healthy and with only six games worth of carries from this season.