NFL Network is reporting that RB Doug Martin will be returning to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 2015 rushing leader runner-up (1,402 yards second only to Minnesota Vikings RB Adrian Peterson), has agreed to sign a 5-year, $35.75 million deal with Tampa Bay.
Yesterday, 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.
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.