Doug Martin fans should expect the Bucs' third-year running back to stay on the field and in on the touches for the running backs just as much as before he got hurt. ESPN believes Martin will still be "the main ball carrier" for the Buccaneers, even if coach Lovie Smith says his team will use a rotation. Per the report, Mike James and Bobby Rainey will get worked in, but they'll only take enough work to keep Martin fresh compared to when Martin did almost everything with Greg Schiano as head coach.
Over 22 career games Martin has 507 touches, or 23.05 per game. Knowing Smith's wishes to run the ball, it wouldn't be surprising to see Martin get that kind of work in weeks where the Bucs aren't getting blown out. There's no doubt he remains appealing as a Top 15 Fantasy running back worth a second-round pick.