The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reportedly parted ways with running back Doug Martin. Thankfully, Tampa Bay can find his replacement in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Doug Martin has been one of the faces of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a tumultuous period of six years. Martin was a Pro Bowl level player during his healthy seasons in Tampa Bay, but injuries have unfortunately caught up with the standout running back.
On Tuesday, Feb. 20, the Buccaneers formally announced that Martin will not be returning to the team for the 2018 season.
The Buccaneers have released RB Doug Martin, who played six seasons in Tampa after being selected in the first round in 2012.https://t.co/WNjGkYeGnf
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) February 20, 2018
This marks the end of an era.
Losing Martin stings, but the Buccaneers will have an immediate opportunity to find his replacement. One of the deepest positions in the 2018 NFL Draft is expected to be running back, which could feature multiple future Pro Bowl level players.
Thus, while signing an established veteran may sound appealing, it stands to reason that Tampa Bay can find a more ideal target in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Before we proceed, there are some Important factors to take note of. In no order:
- This is not a list of the top five running backs in the 2018 NFL Draft.
- This is a list of the top five running backs for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- A group of high-quality prospects were omitted based on fit.
- A group of high-quality prospects were omitted because they’d be a reach at No. 7 overall.
- A group of high-quality prospects were omitted because they’re unlikely to be available when Tampa Bay picks at No. 38 overall in Round 2.
- Tampa Bay has bigger needs than running back, which means some quality prospects will be omitted because other intriguing options can be found further down the board.
The question is: Who of the realistically available prospects should the Tampa Bay Buccaneers consider as Doug Martin’s potential replacement at running back?