Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin was named to the Associated Press' All-Pro team for the first time in his career after an incredible 2015 season, in which he finished second in the NFL in rushing. The Buccaneers running back will become a free agent this offseason, but Martin's agent David Dunn and Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht have reportedly begun contract extension talks.
The Buccaneers are unlikely to place a franchise tag on Martin this offseason, as that would cost them over $11 million for one season, according to Rick Stroud of The Tampa Bay Times. The Buccaneers turned downed Martin's fifth year option prior to this 2015 season, and after a huge year, the Buccaneers running back is likely looking at a big contract in 2016.
Buccaneers new head coach Dirk Koetter has also made it clear that he wants Martin back next season. "Tell Jason Licht that I want, I want Doug Martin back!," Koetter said, via pewterreport.com. "Tell Jason - I'm putting my name on it. I want Doug Martin to be a Buc. Tell him. Who wouldn't want Doug Martin back? He's a terrific football player. Of course, we would love to have him back. Jason has control of that. I think Jason wants Doug back too. You will have to get (Licht) on that but I'm pretty sure he does."
Prior to the end of the regular season, Martin seemed committed to returning to Tampa Bay in 2016, but that will likely depend on the extension he is offered. "I love it here and I have a beautiful home here," Martin said, via The Tampa Tribune. "I'd love to come back. But right now I'm focused on our last game. I'm aware they're talking, but I'll let them handle that for now."
Martin led the Buccaneers ground game with 1,402 rushing yards this season and scored six touchdowns. The former first round pick is a dual threat out of the backfield and had 33 receptions for 271 yards and a touchdown this past season.
