Report: Martin stepping away from Buccaneers to deal with personal issues

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin will step away from the team to take care of personal issues, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

The nature of the issues wasn't disclosed. Martin is expected to issue a statement on the matter Wednesday.

He was excused from Buccaneers practice just days after the team made him a surprising healthy scratch for a crucial game against the New Orleans Saints.

Jacquizz Rodgers started the game and rushed for 63 yards on 15 carries in a Buccaneers loss that essentially eliminated them from playoff contention.

Martin signed a five-year, $35.75-million contract in March after finishing second in the NFL in rushing in 2015. His 1,402 yards and 4.9 yards per carry were both career highs.

The 27-year-old has rushed for 421 yards on 144 attempts (2.9 yards per carry) across eight games this season.