Koetter remains noncommittal on Martin with suspension expiring

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin could be without a roster spot after his suspension expires Monday.

Martin was suspended four games last December after violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, the latter three contests carrying into the 2017 season. The two-time Pro Bowler checked into a treatment facility after being sanctioned.

Martin can be activated after Sunday's game against the New York Giants, but Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter is no rush to bring him back.

"Well, to be honest with you, I’m worried about Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and when Monday comes, we’ll worry about Monday," Koetter said via JoeBucsFan.com.

"Because every Monday, or every day after a game, (G.M.) Jason (Licht) and I get together and, you know, Jason’s got his ideas on what roster changes have to go. There is that possibility for next week. And, you know, if we are going to bring Doug back on Monday, then we're going to have to make room somehow. And that could be dictated by injury this week, so that’s why, you know, we’ll worry about it on Monday."

Jacquizz Rodgers and Peyton Barber have featured in Martin's absence, but neither player has taken command of the role through two games.

For the time being, it would be a surprise to see Martin resume starter responsibilities in Week 5. Following Sunday's game, the Buccaneers will be on a short week, playing the New England Patriots next Thursday.