Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin returned from a three-game suspension to rush for 74 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries in his 2017 season debut against the New England Patriots.
It was his first regular season game since Dec. 18, 2016, after last season was cut short by injury.
With his first game behind him, he feels even better heading into the Week 6 contest against the Arizona Cardinals.
“I feel like I can handle anything coach asks me to do,’’ Martin said, according to Roy Cummings of Florida Football Insiders. “I’m prepared to do everything.’’
Martin's 13 carries and one reception last week came despite playing just 26 total snaps, while Charles Sims led the backfield with 32 and Jacquizz Rodgers played 13, according to Football Outsiders.
For Martin, the productive outing was an important first step toward a full return.
“I was surprised at how quick some of the stuff came back to me,’’ Martin said. “I was surprised at how quickly the reads came and how the twitch was and how good (my) cuts were. It was a good feeling to have.’’
With Sims and Rodgers splitting the work through the first three weeks of the season, the Buccaneers rank 30th in total team rushing yards, averaging just 86 yards per game through four weeks.
While it's been just one game, handing the reigns back to Martin on a full-time basis seems like the best way for the Buccaneers to climb the ranks.
