Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports that the Buccaneers are nearing a deal that will pay RB Doug Martin $6.85 million per year.
Bucs are believed to be nearing a deal for @DougMartin22 for around $6.85 million per year.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) March 9, 2016
Earlier today, it was reported that the San Francisco 49ers were one of the teams interested in acquiring Martin. Martin grew up in the Bay Area, being born in Oakland and growing up in Stockton.
Martin, a first round selection out of Boise State in the 2012 NFL Draft, has 3,806 rushing yards for 20 rushing touchdowns over his career. He also has two receiving touchdowns on 106 receptions for 873 yards. He has been to the Pro Bowl twice (2012, 2015) and was named a First-team All-Pro last year. Martin rushed for 1,402 yards last season with Tampa Bay, second only to the Minnesota Vikings' Adrian Peterson.
The 49ers may still pursue another running back in free agency to compliment Carlos Hyde, who missed nine games last season with a broken foot. They may also look to the NFL Draft for another running back. After all, the 49ers have drafted a running back every year since 2009.
Raiders and 49ers reportedly also are among teams that have shown interest in @DougMartin22. Can't sign deal until 4 pm Wed.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) March 9, 2016
Bucs can sign @DougMartin22 or own FA at any time of course.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) March 9, 2016
Still a ways to go for Doug Martin and Bucs. Hunch was eventually he'll re-sign there but there's a gap to bridge. Still time. We'll see.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 9, 2016