Buccaneers RB Doug Martin Could Be Out Several Weeks

Oct 13, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles inside linebacker DeMeco Ryans (59) tackles Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-20. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Doug Martin could be out for several weeks with his shoulder injury. The injury is believed to be serious even though the x-rays looked fine and showed that the shoulder was not separated.

Here is what Martin said after the game and his chances for playing on Thursday against the Panthers:

"“We’re still evaluating what it is,” said Martin, who added that he’s “not sure yet” if he would play in Thursday night’s game against Carolina. (ESPN)"

Martin hurt his shoulder while he was attempting to catch a pass in the 3rd quarter from Mike Glennon. With Martin out, the Buccaneers will rely on rookie Mike James to carry the load in the running game.

Things can’t seem to get any worse for the Buccaneers. They just lost to the Atlanta Falcons this weekend and still are searching for that first win of the year. They better start taking a look at the young quarterbacks in this draft.

UPDATE: Reports are coming out that he has a torn labrum and possibly could be out for the rest of the year. 

H/T Ian Rapoport