NFL Rankings: 10 best running backs in the league

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) talks with Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy (25) following the game at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Eagles 48-30. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

4 of 12

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Arizona Cardinals defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

9) Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The “muscle hamster”, as he is affectionately known, had a “down” season thanks to serious injury concerns, but that doesn’t stop Doug Martin from being a big-time running back at the NFL level. In 2013, Martin played in only six games, and when he was on the field, his production level dipped considerably, thanks to a perfect storm of blocking issues and limited explosiveness, but if we look back at 2012, his dynamic persona explodes off of the page.

The former Boise State star averaged 4.6 yards per carry as a rookie, and Martin put up nearly 1,500 yards on the ground to go along with 49 catches for 472 yards in the passing game. Martin was billed as a “jack of all trades, master of none” player in the NFL Draft, but he has displayed high-end speed that many doubted through the evaluation process, and with what almost has to be an improved offensive line in Tampa Bay, he should return to peak form.

Home/Chicago Bears