Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin has been suspended four games by the NFL for violating the league’s drug policy, he announced in a statement on Wednesday. Martin stated that he won’t appeal the suspension and will also enter a treatment facility.
The full statement from #Bucs RB Doug Martin, saying "I cannot win these personal battles alone. … No shame in asking for help." pic.twitter.com/xivGDELc3b
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 28, 2016
Doug Martin Suspended for Violating NFL Drug Policy
Martin did not play in Sunday’s 31-24 loss to the New Orleans Saints. Asked about it post-game, Bucs head coach Dirk Koetter stated that it was a “coach’s decision.”
The fifth-year player out of Boise State was one of the bigger beneficiaries of free agency at the running back position in the off-season. Martin signed a five-year $35.75 million extension with the Bucs on March 10th. The contract included $15 million in guaranteed money.
As a result of this suspension, Martin may have triggered terms in his contract that could cost him financially. Citing sources, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that his 2017 base salary of $7 million might no longer be guaranteed. He will also lose $1.47 million as a result of having to sit out the four games.
Since his base salary in 2017 is no longer dead money, the Bucs would realize no cap hit if they chose to release him in the off-season.
But the organization has steadfastly supported their running back in the wake of this news.
“Doug has been a valued member of our organization for the past five seasons and we respect and support his decision to seek help,” general manager Jason Licht said in a statement. “Right now, he is working through issues that are much larger than the game of football. Our primary concern is that he takes the time to focus on getting the help that he needs in order to move forward with his personal and professional life.”
The Bucs close out the regular season on Sunday, January 1st at home against the Carolina Panthers (FOX, 1 PM ET). At 8-7, they still hold slim playoff hopes but need a lot of help. Basically, a win coupled with a Redskins tie and wins by the Colts, Titans, Cowboys, 49ers and Lions would see Tampa Bay clinch a wild card spot.
