Doug Martin Suspended Four Games, Will Enter Rehab

Last Saturday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made the curious decision to sit Doug Martin for a near must-win game against the New Orleans Saints. The Bucs lost that game 31-24, after which head coach Dirk Koetter said he made the decision because he was "trying to put the Bucs in the best position to win games." Martin had struggled with injuries and decreased production this season, yet he was still their best running back.

Today, Martin was excused from practice for personal reasons, and the team said he'd release a statement explaining why. It turns out, he failed a drug test and has been suspended four games.

"I was notified last week of a four-game suspension for violating the league's drug policy. My initial instinct was to appeal the suspension and finish the season with my teammates. However, after numerous discussions with people close to me - including Coach Koetter - I am starting the suspension immediately so I can enter a treatment facility and receive the help I truly need. "On the field, I must be strong and determined to push through both pain and injuries to become an elite NFL running back. Off the field, I have tried that same approach in my personal life. My shortcomings in this area have taught me both that I cannot win these personal battles alone and that there is no shame in asking for help. "I sincerely apologize to the Glazer family, General Manager Jason Licht and the entire Tampa Bay organization, my teammates and our tremendous fans. This was not the season I envisioned and I have let everyone down, including myself. However, adversity yields opportunity and I ask for your support in my battle to overcome these personal issues."

It's unclear if the benching and the suspension are directly related, or if last week's game will count as one of the four, but that's likely not Martin's primary concern right now. Coming off a 2015 season where he was second in the league in rushing, Martin signed a five-year contract with $15 million guaranteed.

The Bucs also released a statement in support of Martin, but who knows what next season holds.

[Buccaneers]