Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin is really making a good impression on Coach Lovie Smith, according to beat writer Scott Smith. Martin rushed for just 494 yards in 11 games last season.
Doug Martin getting love from his coach, fantasy value looking strong
Buccaneers running back Doug Martin had a good preseason and he’s made a good impression on the coaching staff, too. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Fantasy Impact: The Muscle Hamster exploded onto the fantasy scene during his rookie year in 2012, a season that saw him rush for an impressive 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns. In the two seasons since then, however, injuries have limited Martin to a combined 950 yards and three rushing touchdowns.
Coach Smith confirmed Thursday that Martin is undoubtedly the team’s starting running back and expressed complete faith in his ability to play every down. Fantasy owners seem to agree, considering Martin is being drafted as early as the fourth round in leagues as the regular season draws near.
He should definitely be starting for owners in Week 1 against the Tennessee Titans, who boast one of the weakest defenses in the NFL this season, at least on paper.
