Doug Martin will be out for the year

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 star RB Doug Martin had an absolutely phenomenal rookie year as the team’s every-down back with 1,454 rushing yards, 12 total touchdowns, and 49 receptions. Martin was fully expected to pick up right where he left off this year, but it just never materialized. While he had a big game against the New Orleans Saints, Martin’s yards per carry average this year was at 3.6, and he was on pace for significantly less receiving yards per game.

The disappointing season will end with a serious injury, as Doug Martin has indeed been diagnosed with a torn labrum and will be out for the remainder of the year. The NFL Network’s Albert Breer confirmed this bad news, and it was reported just about an hour ago that the fear was that Martin suffered a torn labrum and would be out for a while. Now, it sounds like he is done for the year, barring any unforeseen good news.

Martin suffered the injury in yesterday’s loss to the Atlanta Falcons, and the shoulder injury didn’t seem that serious. Although the second-year back out of Boise State had his arm in a sling, he said he didn’t separate his shoulder and X-rays also turned up negative. However, the news regarding his injury steadily became more severe, and the MRI has revealed a torn labrum. Rookie sixth-round pick Mike James will take over as the feature back, and he is a player well worth watching following a successful career at Rutgers. We’ll see if the Bucs can win their first game soon with a rookie backfield in tote.

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