You be the Bucs GM: Running back
Doug Martin played like the player of old toward the end of last season. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Bucs running back Charles Sims excelled as a pass catcher in nine games last season.Published: March 6, 2015The Tribune analyzes the Bucs' needs, position by position, leading up to the start of NFL free agency.Wednesday: QuarterbackThursday: LinebackerFriday: Running backSaturday: Offensive lineSunday: Defensive lineMonday: Receiver/tight endTuesday: Defensive backTAMPA — The NFL calendar officially flips to 2015 with the start of free agency. A three-day negotiating period begins Saturday, allowing teams and prospective free agents to begin the matchmaking process. On Tuesday, contracts can be signed. With at least $33 million in available salary cap space, the Buccaneers are expected to address a number of needs as head coach Lovie Smith and general manager Jason Licht look to fix the mistakes of 2014’s 2-14 season. For seven straight days, The Tribune and TBO.com will feature one position each day. We’ll provide analysis of the position and list the players to consider. So, here’s your chance, Bucs fans. Go to TBO.com and tell us what you would do.RUNNING BACKThis is one of the few spots where the Bucs might feel comfortable with the personnel on their roster. Though Doug Martin has struggled to regain his rookie Pro Bowl form, he looked a little more like the Martin of old down the stretch last year and, as a result, should retain his starter’s role. Behind Martin, the Bucs have a solid backup in Bobby Rainey and an intriguing third-down back in second-year pro Charles Sims. Though Sims struggled early after an ankle injury cost him the first eight weeks of the season, he shined as a pass catcher with 19 receptions for 190 yards. At fullback, Jorvorskie Lane returns as the likely starter, with Mike James versatile enough to fill in as a short-yardage running back and fullback. The Bucs might look to add speed and depth here, but this is a position they might ignore in free agency and the draft.Bucs under contractMike James – Versatility is compared to ex-Bucs RB Earnest Graham.Doug Martin – Looking to bounce back from two injury-plagued years.Evan Rodriguez – A bit of a tweener, can also play tight end, H-back.Charles Sims – Rookie excelled as a pass catcher in nine games.Bucs potential free agentsJorvorskie Lane – Must sign with Bucs if offer is made.Bobby Rainey – Restricted free agent is a solid backup and capable starter.NFL potential free agentsDeMarco Murray, Cowboys – Coming off a career year, but how many years does he have left?Justin Forsett, Ravens – At 29, might not have much tread left on the tires.Ryan Matthews, Chargers – If he could just stay healthy, could be an impact player.C.J. Spiller, Bills – Bucs really don’t have a breakaway guy like him on roster.Antone Smith, Falcons – At 29, still explosive — and the Bucs need explosive.
