Buccaneers: Five Reasons to be Excited About the Future

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Dec 4, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Jacquizz Rodgers (32) runs the ball during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Tampa Bay won 28-21. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

Jacquizz Rodgers

Yes, I realize that this one technically isn’t part of the 2017 roster yet. I will make the case anyway.

There is no guarantee that Doug Martin will be back next year. He got the big money last year, that is true. It would be sentimental for Bucs fans if the team keeps faith in Martin even after recent events. But even before his injury and the suspension, he was not performing anywhere the level of 2015. Can anyone really say with confidence that we can trust him?

Now with the suspension, the team can release Martin without any cap hit. Don’t be surprised if it happens.

Charles Sims is another guy that like it or not, has trouble staying on the field. Rodgers was signed during the year, off the street, and became the Bucs best rusher. He led the team with 560 yards on the ground and averaged 4.3 yards per carry. He was the most explosive of the top three backs, and it wasn’t close.

Re-signing him makes sense, and assuming they do, he will be one to watch next year.

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