Report: Bucs eyeing Ivory, Miller if Martin can't be re-signed

Still yet to reach a long-term extension with Doug Martin, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are reportedly looking into their options for replacing him in free agency.

The Buccaneers have expressed interest in New York Jets running back Chris Ivory, and are also expected to target Miami Dolphins rusher Lamar Miller, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.

Entering the offseason with plenty of space against the salary cap, Tampa Bay shouldn't have much trouble putting together an offer that lands it one of the top available ball-carriers.

Martin will likely continue to be the priority, though, so the Buccaneers' free-agent strategy may not take effect until his representation gets a sense of his value on the open market.

The 27-year-old is coming off his most productive season since winning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2012. Starting in all 16 games, Martin recorded 1,402 yards to finish second among the league's leading rushers.