Buccaneers on the Bubble: Running Backs

Jun 14, 2016; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) works out during mini camp at One Buccaneer Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 14, 2016; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) works out during mini camp at One Buccaneer Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 30, 2015; Birmingham, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Peyton Barber (25) in the 2015 Birmingham Bowl at Legion Field. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2015; Birmingham, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Peyton Barber (25) in the 2015 Birmingham Bowl at Legion Field. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

If you followed the NFL Draft closely then you were no doubt surprised when Peyton Barber left college to enter the NFL, and then heard about the plight of his family which led to his unexpected decision.

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Undrafted out of Auburn, it took the Bucs less than an hour to sign him to a contract which will pay him the league minimum should he make the team.

As a thousand yard rusher in his first season of real work in his sophomore season, Barber looks to have NFL potential with some big areas to work on before becoming truly effective.

He moves well in small spaces but will move too much before committing to gaps, which could be problematic in a league where dancing backs get stopped behind the line of scrimmage more often than not.

Helping Barber’s case is his ability and willingness to play in every situation the offense could face. A talented runner and capable pass blocker, he’ll have a chance to secure a spot on the depth chart entering the year.

Next: The Rookie From Missouri

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