The loss for at least half the season of promising Buccaneers rookie running back Charles Sims will likely result in more carries for Doug Martin. Sims had been considered a threat to take attempts away from Martin, who is coming off a disappointing, injury-plagued 2013 season.
Martin was deemed the featured back by Lovie Smith in June. The Sims injury could cement his status, though it could also result in increased work for fellow backs Bobby Rainey and Mike James. Both flashed last year in the absence of Martin. Rainey achieved two 100-yard performances before tailing off late while James rushed for 158 yards against Seattle, no less, and averaged a team-best 4.9 YPC on the season.