Doug Martin

Doug Martin's impressive spring encouraged Buccaneers to pass on running back

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers passed on a running back at 19th overall partly because Doug Martin has been "the most impressive player thus far" at offseason workouts, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

What It Means:

Martin is reportedly in great shape following his time in rehab. He's still suspended for the first three games of the year, and the Bucs could easily address the running back spot on Friday evening. Taking tight end O.J. Howard at 19th overall likely had more to do with an elite talent falling into their lap than any faith in Martin.

Among the 42 running backs with at least 100 rushing attempts last year, Martin's -0.20 Rushing Net Expected Points (NEP) per attempt ranked second-worst. His career-worst Rushing NEP per attempt prior to 2016 was -0.10 during the 2013 season.