Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith stated that running back Doug Martin is a priority this offseason, and that he wants to continue to put him in positions where he can succeed, according to Fox Sports.
Martin is due for a big contract this offseason, and some are speculating that he could receive a deal similar to New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen. Ingram signed a four-year, $16 million contract back in March, and that deal could serve as a model for Martin's future contract.
"Is Doug Martin a priority? I can say that, yeah, he definitely is," said Smith in November, via Fox Sports. "I don't think Doug came into this season thinking he wasn't wanted around here. It's the complete opposite of that." The Buccaneers are currently 6-6 on the year and are fighting to make a wildcard spot in Smith's second year as head coach.
Martin has been a huge reason for the Buccaneers success on the field this season, as he is currently the second-leading rusher in the NFL with 1,133 rushing yards. Martin has been one of the most dynamic players to watch on the field this season, and his 235 yard rushing game against the Eagles is currently the most by any running back in the league this year.
Tampa Bay currently has four games left on their schedule, and face NFC South rival the New Orleans Saints this Sunday. Martin rushed for 78 yards and caught two passes for 20 yards against the Saints in September, and the Buccaneers star running back will look to make his presence felt this weekend. Martin didn't sign a contract extension prior to this season, and that move looks like it will pay out big this offseason.
