Doug Martin suspended for violating NFL PED policy

The NFL will suspend Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin four games for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Rapoport said sources shared with him that the suspension is specifically for using Adderall, and that it is “part of the issues [Martin is] battling.”

The Buccaneers benched Martin for the Christmas Eve matchup against the New Orleans Saints in Week 16.

Martin released a statement Wednesday regarding the suspension.

“I was notified last week of a four-game suspension for violating the league’s drug policy,” the statement read. “My initial instinct was to appeal the suspension and finish the season with my teammates. However, after numerous discussions with people close to me — including Coach Koetter — I am starting the suspension immediately so I can enter a treatment facility and receive the help I truly need.”

Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht said the team support’s Martin’s decision to seek help.

“Doug has been a valued member of our organization for the past five seasons and we respect and support his decision to seek help,” Licht’s statement read. “Right now, he is working through issues that are much larger than the game of football. Our primary concern is that he takes this time to focus on getting the help that he needs in order to move forward with his personal and professional life.”

In eight games this season, Martin has 144 carries for 421 yards and three touchdowns. He’s added 134 yards through the air.

The Buccaneers face the Carolina Panthers on Sunday with a potential postseason bid still on the line for Tampa Bay.