Bucs release running back Doug Martin
Doug Martin on the sidelines of an NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals on September 18, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
TAMPA (FOX 13) - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers confirmed Tuesday that they have released running back Doug Martin.
The first-round selection spent six seasons with the Bucs. His 2012 rookie season -- when he rushed for 1,454 yards and scored 12 touchdowns -- proved to be his best year with the team and he wound up in the Pro Bowl.
The next season, though, he suffered a shoulder injury and wound up on injured reserve. He made it back to the Pro Bowl in 2015 and was rewarded with a five-year, $75-million contract extension.
But late in 2016, he was suspended for violations of the league's substance abuse policy after missing half of the season with a hamstring injury. Martin said at the time that he'd enter a treatment facility.
His 2017 season was unremarkable, though. He split time in the backfield with Jacquizz Rodgers, Peyton Barber, and Charles Sims.
The 5-foot-9 Martin was known by the nickname 'Muscle Hamster,' though he made it clear that he preferred the self-bestowed moniker 'Dougernaut' instead.
In a statement released Tuesday via Twitter, Martin thanked the fans of Tampa Bay but said he believes his "best football" is still ahead.
"You cheered when I scored touchdowns and supported me when I stumbled," he wrote. "You embraced me not only as a player, but also as a person. That is special. Thank you."