He’s Not Doug Martin
May 7th, 2017
Rookie Bucs RB chats with Dirk Koetter. (Photo courtesy of Buccaneers.com.)
Rookie Bucs running back Jeremy McNichols is friends with Doug Martin. But please, he’s not Doug Martin.
This comes from none other than McNichols himself, the fifth-round pick of the Bucs last weekend. Joe asked McNichols yesterday, after the second day of rookie minicamp at One Buc Palace, if he gets annoyed or irritated when he is often compared to Martin.
You see, both Martin and McNichols are Boise State products drafted by the same team and, for the time being, they’re teammates.
McNichols confessed, he is a different running back than Martin. In some ways.
“I feel like me and him are different and the same on certain levels,” McNichols said. “I don’t really know how different we are. That’s for you guys to say.
“I want you to guys to look at me as Jeremy McNichols but of course everybody is comparing the numbers and the height, the weight, things like that, the same school. I don’t really get bothered by that.”
The one area where the two are certainly different is in the passing game. Martin is, at best, an OK receiver out of the backfield. Nothing special. Nothing to get too excited about. McNichols? Dude is known as a crushing blocker and his greatest trait may be his hands.
“I’m pretty confident in catching,” McNichols said. “But Doug’s a great player and I looked up to him, being a running back in the league for a while.”
If McNichols can shine in training camp and preseason, the guy who should be scared isn’t just Martin, but Charles Sims, who is a one-trick pony. Dude cannot run between the tackles and imitates Beyonce in the flat (it’s a really bad imitation).
If McNichols can show any degree of running ability, Sims, who is in the final year of his contract, might want to rent.
May 7th, 2017 at 10:09 am
Well I guess sims is before DK so it makes a ton of sense he’s the odd man out you are right the guy can’t run between the tackles where I kept telling y’all jMc is is way better than sims by a mile look out for this kid
May 7th, 2017 at 10:18 am
Somebody kept drilling down on him with that question on the field during that interview.
It was uncomfortable.
May 7th, 2017 at 10:21 am
Sims is not going anywhere. And he’s a hell of a lot better runner than anyone seems to give him credit for these days. 4.9 ypc with 107 carries in 2015.
We see him have a couple bad games after Martin went down early last year behind an Oline that was not run blocking well at all at the beginning of the season – and all of a sudden Sims can’t run anymore and is now officially a “one trick pony”??
Even if that were true (which its not) – its a hell of a “one trick” he’s got. Sims is pretty dynamic with the ball in his hands in the open field and Koetter is not going to let that ability go so easily as some seem to think.
May 7th, 2017 at 10:29 am
While I love all this speed we have… #weaponsforWinston I truly hope we run the ball. IMHO #3 only needs to throw 28 to 30 xs a game. With a true running game, we’re keeping our D fresh. With JMC in the lineup the play action could be our MOST DEADLY PLAY!!!
Evans
DJax
OJ
Brate
JMC … Hot damn!!! Let’s go
May 7th, 2017 at 10:32 am
saw the video of you guys interviewing him after practice and i gotta say you were reaching trying to get him to say something he thinks he’s better than doug at😂😂 of course he’s not going to want to say anything you basically said it for him and all he said is “im confident in my catching” can’t believe you actually put this in a article
May 7th, 2017 at 10:36 am
pickgrin i’m pretty sure 95% of bucs fans and the bucs coaches will say running the ball is not charles strong suit what he did last year was inexcusable he had lanes to run through he could’ve hit the whole with authority but instead he decided to try and stutter step and tip toe in the backfield all the time… big reason why he didn’t see too many carries after he came back from injury if anyone needs to be on look out it’s sims because this guy does everything he does well but he also might prove to be a better runner between the tackles witch would mean sims might be expendable. i don’t think we’d cut him but if they let it be known that he is available they may move him for a draft pick and let mcnichols take over 3rd down duty
May 7th, 2017 at 10:37 am
McNichols simply doesn’t have the burst Dougie has. That’s why I can’t understand people saying he’s going to replace Dougie. He’s fast enough to make long runs and shifty enough to make something out of nothing but not a better runner. Having great hands and you line him up with Dougie and OJ blocking pick your poison! That’s another story
Joe finally tells the truth about Dougies hands……..he’s ok but so many people try to say he can’t catch or sucks. Where’d they get that idea? Why because he’s droooed a few passes? One of the most impressive catches I’ve seen him make was against Luke Kuechley. He won that battle against one of the best as a rookie.
Sheriff Koetter has a whole rack of shiny new guns to play with you know he’s a happy lawman!
May 7th, 2017 at 10:49 am
McNichols is better in every facet than Sims was in college and Sims hasn’t developed all that well in the pros. The issue for McNichols is that he has been playing running back only 3 years. He lacks the instincts of a true runner so far, but his burst is just as good as Martin, he lacks the instincts, I think the needle is pointing up with McNichols. This year will be interesting if his shoulder heals. If you watch his game film you can see him protecting that shoulder.
I also believe that Martin will be back to a 1000 yard runner again.
Joe is on board with this now tho. This kid is the Sims replacement, not Martin’s.
May 7th, 2017 at 10:56 am
I agree with Whata, for as many weapons as we now have on the outside I hope Koetter still executes his fair share of running plays. I get the whole passing league thing but if he really means he wants the Bucs to be known as a”bad@$$ Football team” my belief that attitude comes with being able to effectively pound the rock. When you want to more so than when an opposing team dictates that you do so. That pass total a game you mention to me would be ideal. To think man Fameis more than likely is about to start his career with three str8 4000+ passing season’s. Feather in his hat man.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:09 am
Pickgrin
I am in agreement with you about Sims. Just rack up that highlight against Atlanta.
I think people think that because he’s not a bell cow back…a guy who can pound between the tackles he has no value…that’s simply incorrect…what IS accurate is he’s not a 3 down back with enough versatility to block well and run well.
OTOH he is still quick enough and good enough in open space to even line up wide at times.
The more weapons the better! DK is going to create some real nightmares for opposing DC’s. And of course there is no doubt Sims IS versatile enough to give us depth as another guy in our RB by committee.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:16 am
I never said running was Sims forte. But to say he CANT run is ridiculous. He was the best relief back in the league in 2015. FACT! When Sims is healthy he is a good option to bring in to relieve the #1 back. FACT! He can be a dynamic playmaker – especially when he gets the ball with some room to work with. FACT!
Sims biggest problem thus far in his NFL career is he can’t stay healthy.
I guarantee you if Sims is healthy – he will be on this team and he will be utilized.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:20 am
It all depends on how training camp shakes out, But as it stands right now, if McNichols is healthy, i’d say he poses the most threat to either Sims or Barber.
But I feel like whoever doesnt make the team will likely be put on the PS.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:22 am
But Pickgrin is 100 percent right, Charles Sims is a good player when he’s healthy. And he had a phenomenal 2015 season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eGN5MTIBkU
My oh my how quickly people forget.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:23 am
Sims rushed for a ton of yards in college, like NcNichols did.
IMO, Sims is the one on the hot seat, not Martin. When healthy and motivated, Doug Martin is an outstanding grind-out-the-yards back, with an occasional burst for a big play.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:28 am
Oh and while we’re on the subject of terrific seasons that people seem to have forgotten…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V8GZSzexOc
May 7th, 2017 at 11:29 am
Guys our passing attack is going to be so dynamic that Blake could rush for 1000 yards!
Last yr it was almost impossible to run the ball because ME13 was all they had to shut down in order to stack the box.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:33 am
Jeremy McNichols is built like Doug Martin, But I compare him to former Saints RB Pierre Thomas.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:33 am
The difference Martin makes when he is healthy, is yardage after contact, who else on the roster can do that, McNichols we don’t know yet, as far as Sims in space as a back out of the backfield, I will take that everyday, once again when healthy. If the best few guys win, we all win, just no more ATL cast offs, not to say I didn’t like what Quiz did, but that ship of ATL players has sailed unless Julio gets cut
May 7th, 2017 at 11:33 am
You make a great point SB, buy I wouldn’t go quite that far 😀
May 7th, 2017 at 11:33 am
If you have to hope a guy is “motivated,” that right there is Exhobit-A why he shouldn’t be on the roster.
So the playoff hopes of an entire team is based of if a key player is motivated or not????
Like $7 million shouldn’t be motivation enough? So being a good teammate isn’t motivation enough???
May 7th, 2017 at 11:35 am
The odd man out will not clear waivers. week 4 will be interesting unless someone is hurt. Joe has had a very valid point all along. #22 may have played his last down in pewter.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:36 am
Shady Mccoy is a one trick pony that dances at the line of scrimmage too. But Im sure we would all love to have shady on this team. Hell Leveon Bell went second round because people thought he was “too patient” at the line. Michael pittman ised to run full speed into offensive linemans backs. Sims can run, has great hands, can pass block and has already played and proven himself for at least one year in this league. Lets look at mcnichols as a modern day earnest graham, which is exactly what he is
May 7th, 2017 at 11:41 am
sims can never commit to a hole FACT can run between the tackles to save his life FACT i’m not saying he’s not good at what he does im saying he’s very limited in what he’s able to do . it’s hard to go out there with a running back that defenses wont respect running up the middle like i said there was a reason he didn’t get to many carries even after coming back from injury. sure he got some but mostly outside runs. i put him and humphries kind of in the same boat they’re good at what they do (screens, short passes, getting a couple yards after the catch ) but after that not going to give u much there’s a reason the skills positions were greatly upgraded they felt the skills players on our team were severely lacking compared to other teams and it’s true. jameis winston has been working with a cast of stand offs for 2 years excluding mike evans and he’s been making it work. they went out and got real nfl level talent and playmakers out there and are expecting jameis to do great things. don’t hold on to dearly to charles 1 good year it’s looking more like a outlier at this point compared to the norm. and youre basically just adding another layer to my argument by saying he can’t stay healthy because that’s also a FACT and if they trust mcnichols durability over him just another reason he’s expendable.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:43 am
Cobra
Doug Martin is an outstanding grind-out-the-yards back, with an occasional burst for a big play.
I don’t know if I would go as far as “outstanding” but I do not mean to nitpick your remark as I basically agree with you.
This though is why while not a Martin Hater…and I’m able to forgive his mistake except for the remaining penalty…I’m not angry with Doug….I”m not saying he sucks….I”m simply saying we already have enough backs on this roster to find a grind it out back with occasional bursts before getting hauled down from behind.
Since we did NOT go for a “name” back early…I see the writing on the wall. We are not expecting a Marshawn Lynch….Leveon Bell…Ezekial Elliott…we are expecting to have a very good running game based on a significantly improved OL and one of the most threatening passing attacks in the league….there will simply be NO WAY for safeties to drop into the box against the run.
And so why with plenty of potential talent…Quizz…McNichols…Barber…Sims…do we want to plan on a back that will not even be available for the first three games. I want the SB this year!
We are good enough to make a real run this year….but not good enough to jeopardize the first three games…two of which are on the road but winnable and still push hard for the playoffs.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:44 am
Dewey I told Blake lastnight I’m getting behind Dougie. But, there is small place in my mind that feel’s like Joe may very be correct in his assumption. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around taking a young man that came from the same school. Similar size and stature. I mean they could’ve found someone from anywhere. They went right back to Boise.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:45 am
@Joe
He was also gimped by a Hamstring injury for the majority of the season, And of course there’s the drug problem, for which he has gone to rehab.
So let’s not make it out that Doug Martin only had a crap season because he didn’t want to.
Both Jason and Dirk have been pushing the narrative that Doug appears to be in great shape and in the right mind set. I say lets believe them until proven otherwise because again, Doug Martin can be a really good player when healthy and Motivated.
So I say to you, If you’re ready and willing to give Riley Cooper a second chance, and have no problems with him making the squad, then why be so resistant to Doug Martin returning?
May 7th, 2017 at 11:46 am
i loved what sims did in 2015 too but last year when we needed him to take over for doug he proved all of what we already knew about him… he should never be in the line up as a starting rb and should not get more than 5-8 handoffs a game he’s just to inconsistent and don’t talk about levon bell or any of those other actual good running backs if sims was anything like him he would see the hole commit to it and hit it. it’s simple he doesn’t have the vision and doesn’t trust his eyes enough to be a good running back nothing more than a solid recieving rotational back. i really didn’t think there was anyone out there who still thought charles sims could be a good everydown back after the broncos game and don’t let the broncos defense fool you their run defense was awful last year and he still struggled to gain a single yard 😂😂😂 u guys are funny i’m done here
May 7th, 2017 at 11:46 am
Nice to see we have so much depth now in certain positions that people are actually fighting about who should stay.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:46 am
☺I kinda disagree 941,Shady does have the moves but Shady get up in there bro.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:49 am
nos- I’m wondering id there is any way we can keep all 5. I’m thinking Barber might have the best chance of slipping through waivers. We almost lost Brate when Nawlins signed him 2 years ago.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:51 am
PS. nos welcome back, never got into the whole Cook thing with you cause i’m just a arm chair gm who has been wrong before, but you earned a ton of respect coming back here and taking your medicine like a man. kudos!
May 7th, 2017 at 11:54 am
There wasnt a single running back on the roster last year that could run. And before you even think about mentioning jac rodgers look at the teams he played against. They were the worst teams in the league against the run. Who didnt have a big game against san fran last year? You guys act like there were gaping holes for RBs to run through. So when I hear “commit to a hole” I laugh because there were none. Quite honestly if our oline doesnt improve run blocking this year you will get the same thing happening no matter who you put in the backfield.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:54 am
According to Joe, it seems all of our running backs are about to get dumped 🙃. I kid, but seriously, Chuck Sims is in no trouble – he’s 1 season removed from 1000 total yards from scrimmage. I think he’s closer to that player than the one we saw last year. Is he a game changer? No. But he’s proven he can be a versatile weapon out of the backfield and in space. I think if anything he’ll leave when his contract expires and McNichols then steps into the passing back role.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:56 am
And the Bucs were comparing Charles Sims to Matt Forte. When they first said that after the draft, I knew then that they were poor evaluators. The only young RB I can compare to Matt Forte is David Johnson.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:59 am
What about Sims being closer to the player he has been two our of three years, the majority of his career?
May 7th, 2017 at 12:00 pm
941bucsfan, I think our O-Line will be destroyed by the Falcons twice, if we don’t get it right. I see a lot of issues with them facing,,Vic Beasley, Takk Mckinley, Grady Jarrett, Dontari Poe. I hope they fix this O-Line, because Dan Quinn has fixed his D-Line.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:01 pm
A public service announcement:
Someone is trying to post in this thread using a handle trolling another long-time commenter.
Joe doesn’t want to ban this guy but let’s just say that won’t fly on this site.
Thank you for your time.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:03 pm
941bucsfan ur dumb bro there’s no real holes in nfl unless you have a oline like dallas or pittsburgh when i say a hole it could be a little crease or just the finest of spaces to fit through watch some tape or something moron and watch how running backs set up blocks, they’re patient they see a crease and they hit it… exactly what i’m talking about and that’s exaclty what rodgers did lol… rodgers certainly isn’t good but he’s the best we had last year and there’s a reason why he was able to get chunks of yardage running behind the same line and against the same defenses as doug and sims but they would constantly get stuffed at the line… if you wanna try and say something smart actually think it out buddy obviously there’s no real holes in the nfl and if you really think the blocking is the issue with our running game that doesn’t make any sense because we have the same line as 2 years ago when we had one of the best rushing attacks only replaced mankins with pamhile who was one of our best run blockers… if it isn’t the o lines fault who’s fault must it be?? oh ya it has to be the running backs fault right.. give it a break u bum that comment shows you probably don’t know too much about football. here’s how your dumb football fan logic sounds… “running backs keep getting stopped at line of scrimmage so it must be o lines fault right” no you idiot if there was a free man running straight through the line and hitting the back before he even gets to the LOS than it’s the olines fault fckin moron.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:07 pm
Were counting on a 5th rounder or a rebound. Scary.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:08 pm
A thanks alot Dewey I wasn’t gone stay away for much longer. Blake just sped up the process☺.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:08 pm
Clearly all Bucs fans hope McNichols is this huge steal from the 5th round of the draft. But the odds are slim when you look at the grand scheme of things, though there have been some that were drafted late and did very well. So, first things first. We cannot compare McNichols to Martin or anyone realistically because he hasn’t run a single NFL play. All these guys are in the NFL at all because they are fantastic in college, right? And we should all know that doesn’t always translate. I’d also expect nothing else than for him and his coaches to be full of confidence for the guy. From the start, due to performance, contract year, total money, etc, Sims should be the most concerned, then Barber. Barber is cheap though, and I think he is as good if not better than Sims so far. I can’t see them cutting McNichols this year at all, or he’d have to be so bad the Bucs decide they can’t develop him…and that’s really what 5th rounders usually are. So the pressure is also on McNichols himself, and Sims. And don’t forget Russell Hansbrough. I’m not saying he’s a starter or even potential backup, but he has performed in NFL games already; he’s done all that’s been asked. So to all about the hope and hype, let’s eagerly await to see what McNichols can do. What he says doesn’t mean a thing. Even Martin’s critics believe he’s in for a good year just by the past patterns alone. I think we’ll see both of them on the roster all season lone. Sims and Hansbrough…maybe not. McNichols best asset right now is he was drafted 5th round and the Bucs will give him at least a season…
May 7th, 2017 at 12:10 pm
I wish my guy the best over in minny. But I totally understand not being able to pass on O.J. for anyone. Trust me I’m very pleased that he fell to us. That young man about to make life all the more easier for one Jameis WINSton.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:14 pm
We’ll see. Kid has to prove himself before he earns a spot.
As to Sims, if he gets cut and goes to a team with a good oline, he might do well.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:16 pm
Blake
How quickly people forget you say…well Dirk and the coaches forget too. This is a what have you done for me lately league. Dirk doesnt care what sims, or anyone, did in 2015. Im not for or against sims making the team (im for the best players making the team), but it looks to me like McNichols is much more of a threat to sims than martin. May the best men win is all we should care about. I want wins not stats or pro bowls. Bring back the lombardi baby! Go bucs
May 7th, 2017 at 12:24 pm
one bad season and you’re ready to throw the entire backfield away but make excuses for a below average run blocking performance from the oline… 2015 martin was a #2 rusher in the NFL and the duo was the top duo in the NFL… they’ll talent duo & will bounce back… mcnichols will most likely end up on the practice squad or cut if he can’t beat out peyton barber
May 7th, 2017 at 12:32 pm
i personally think all 4 make the team with barber the odd man out but a scenario i thought of not to long ago while trying to comprehend why joe would think martin still might not be safe is this: if peyton barber shows up in training camp and is a sleeper running back like koetter likes to think and proves he can be relied on to run the ball 20 times a game we could go into the season with a scenario that looks like this, rodgers & barber splitting play time on 1 & 2nd down as our primary ball carriers and sims & mcnichols splitting time on 3rd down. i’m kinda for this scenario because it would mean we are younger at the position and have a young guy who could be our future (barber&mcnichols) while also not having to worry about the doug martin situation wondering how we are going to work him back into the mix when back from suspension. just something i thought of and wondering what you all would think of that
May 7th, 2017 at 12:36 pm
Doug is still the most talented RUNNING back on this team. McNic should push him for carries but i just can’t see how Doug Martin is cut from this team. It doesnt matter what the stats said last year, peyton Barber is not even in the same world as Doug Martin. My guess is Peyron goes back to the practice squad this year.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:42 pm
Recently I had a chance to catch up with Joe and asked him how he compares to the other Joe. “I feel like me and him are different and the same on certain levels,” Joe said. “I don’t really know how different we are. That’s for you guys to say.
“I want you to guys to look at me as Joe but of course everybody is comparing the articles and the height, the weight, things like that, the same website!. I don’t really get bothered by that, but the other Joe is slightly fatter than me so that makes me happy”
May 7th, 2017 at 12:46 pm
*Grabs some Popcorn*
May 7th, 2017 at 12:48 pm
Thank you Blake really people don’t get it most yards per touch in the NFL in 2015 out of any player and he can run anywhere unlike people like to think is he the best between the tacklers runner no but he’s not bad at all on a side of the ball where every one knows we need more yards after catch guys and chuck has proven to be one of our best guys in space so I really just don’t get the hate for the guy he’s effective as anything in his own role ok sorry for ranting lmao
May 7th, 2017 at 12:52 pm
of course he’s not doug martin he can stay healthy and does not screw over his teammates. doug is a joke you fan boys are laughable counting on that bum when has PROVEN 3 out of 5 years he was horrendous not even bad…
May 7th, 2017 at 12:57 pm
@DEFF JEFF
That is hilarious!!!!!! JOE did you see this? too funny
May 7th, 2017 at 1:07 pm
I see ya vision Nation.
May 7th, 2017 at 1:09 pm
😊That ish was funny Jeff..
May 7th, 2017 at 1:16 pm
The missing piece for fans is that we are not privy to the behind the scene dynamics. Koetter was probably privy to Doug’s actions before we were. Did Doug promise him and perhaps his team mates it won’t happen again..and it did? Did he play his last “get out of jail free card”…and they won’t ever trust him again….We just don’t know.
May 7th, 2017 at 1:18 pm
Idk. Part of me still thinks that the plan this season is to give Martin 1 more chance on a 1 year deal amd have McNichols replace Sims. Then next year cut ties with Doug and draft his replacement.
Who knows tho. Maybe McNichols balls out in the preseason and earns the starting role full time.
May 7th, 2017 at 1:20 pm
Simms is gone…Martin iant going anywhere Joe, anyone who would keep twinkle toes over Martin is stupid
May 7th, 2017 at 1:21 pm
Guaranteed!
May 7th, 2017 at 1:40 pm
Know that with the 3 game suspension coming into this year, that Drug Martin will not count as a roster spot!!!!! They can see what they have in the other guys, or if someone gets injured!!!! or maybe a another team has a major injury at RB and we can trade one of ours!!!!! or worst case is Drug Martin comes back for week 4 and we slip one to the practice squad!!!
Go Bucs!!!!!!!!
May 7th, 2017 at 1:41 pm
Hold up Joe, you busting by DM(HAMSTER) balls, but you’re willing to clean the slate for RC (the cut by Phillie, some say prick or JackAss, N-Word using son of a biscuit eater) if you’re going to bust on Martain then don’t give RC A FREE PASS, he’s no more than a 5th receiver at best, football has a way of working these things out!! Go BUCS !!
May 7th, 2017 at 1:43 pm
No sane defensive coordinator will put 8 in the box against this offense.
They should have no problem running the ball this year.
Go Bucs!!!
May 7th, 2017 at 2:03 pm
Hey Hog………Last I heard RC broke Zero Laws. He exercised his first Amendment rights that this country was founded on. Was it smart? Nah but he is entitled to his opinion just as Kaep is exercising his right to disrespect all of us who have served this fine country. You could use a long deep look in the mirror pal.
May 7th, 2017 at 2:16 pm
BigHogHaynes:
Don’t be silly (though 98 percent of the time, you are). Being downright ignorant (Cooper) and breaking well-known NFL rules and letting your team down (Mollie Hamster) are two wholly different things. That’s like saying Joe Mixon and ASJackwagon are the same felons. C’mon!
And if Cooper is what you think he is, how come he and DeSean Jackson are tight? One of the reasons the Bucs signed Cooper is because he DJax are best of friends.
May 7th, 2017 at 2:19 pm
Defenses wont be going downfield and attacking the gaps
With our perimeter offensive weapons, the defense cant dictate against us with the pass or run
Jameis has been 1 of the most qbs blitzed and pressured…def coords know jameis without pressure can go downfield especially in the deep middle like hot butter…
This offense we will witness this year, will not be remotely the same that any of us has seen since jaboo and kotter came to town
I see 6 games similar to the philly game where jameis threw 5 tds to 5 different recievers, where all cylinders are clicking
May 7th, 2017 at 2:26 pm
That is without a doubt the most credible thing you have ever posted here Kobe. I am shocked!
May 7th, 2017 at 2:34 pm
Jameis is one of the effective quarterbacks against pressure in the NFL.
May 7th, 2017 at 2:51 pm
Jameis is one of the effective quarterbacks against pressure in the NFL.
And given the incredible increase in legitimate targets with safety valves all over the field #3 is only going to get better against pressure.
May 7th, 2017 at 2:57 pm
Howdy SPBF……and to go along with what you said, all those extra targets will decrease the amount of pressure JW3 will see. He will no longer be locked into only one or two options waiting for them to develop
May 7th, 2017 at 3:00 pm
SB
I see 1 playoff game win this year
If glazers give licht the green light to spend and get a top released veteren corner and def end…
We will play in NFC game
Jameis game will click during the season. They will be a time this year when jameis potential will be considered at superbowl winning level by everyone nationally
Superbowl level qb play meaning…taking over games
May 7th, 2017 at 3:04 pm
Folks seem to ignore the fact that Doug Martin has worked hard over his years with us to improve his pass-catching. This past year he was the best RB on our team in the pass game (outside of Mike James who was 4-for-4) … Doug was 14-for-16 (pretty danged good) for 134 yds (88% and a 9.6 average). Charles Sims, who hangs his hat on pass-catching, was 24-for-32 for 190 yds (75% and a 7.9 average).
May 7th, 2017 at 3:12 pm
Trout fishing time. Later guys
May 7th, 2017 at 3:21 pm
Joe Says:
May 7th, 2017 at 2:16 pm
BigHogHaynes:
Don’t be silly (though 98 percent of the time, you are). Being downright ignorant (Cooper) and breaking well-known NFL rules and letting your team down (Mollie Hamster) are two wholly different things. That’s like saying Joe Mixon and ASJackwagon are the same felons. C’mon!
And if Cooper is what you think he is, how come he and DeSean Jackson are tight? One of the reasons the Bucs signed Cooper is because he DJax are best of friends.
————————————————————————————-
Well Joe, you can compare the severity of the RC and DM cases all you like.
But the fact of the matter is, Doug Martin has had ten times more success in the NFL than Riley Cooper.
Even for as bad as he was for his 3 injury riddled seasons. Doug Martin has still been a productive football player in this league. Over his 5 year career up to now, he has averaged of 1,046 yards from scrimmage per yer, with an average of 5 TD’s per year to go along with that. And has 2 season’s as a top 5 player at his position.
Where as Cooper has averaged 492 yards from scrimmage per year, with 3.6 TD’s a year. His best year being in 2013 with 47 catches for 835 yards and 8 scores.
So Doug Martin has shown the capability to be a Workhorsee running back when healthy and Motivated. And Riley Cooper has shown that he can potentially be a decent 4th or 5th WideOut.
Yet you view it as foolish to bring Martin back, but are willing to accept Cooper with open arms.
Not saying you’re not entitled to that opinion, I just find it curious.
May 7th, 2017 at 4:02 pm
It’ll be interesting who eats crow in the Martin situation.
It’s clear some are upset Light did not pay attention to them, kinda like Johnny Football, Part Deux…;)
May 7th, 2017 at 4:40 pm
I still feel Charles Simms should be moved to WR and let him compete with Godwin and Humphrey’s. His hands and ability to make plays in open space are his strengths. his pure running skills are complete suspect. Plus I feel he is also a better receiver than some of the 5’s and 6’s.
May 7th, 2017 at 4:44 pm
One problem with the RB roster is lack of ST guys…
May 7th, 2017 at 4:49 pm
How do we have no use for Sims? When healthy, he led the NFL in yards per touch…..you have to find ways to utilize him in space. He’s not going to be a between the pads runner, but he can be a weapon on the outside.
May 7th, 2017 at 4:57 pm
@feelthepower:
While true, he’s become one-dimensional. When he’s on the field DC’s know a pass is coming and can adjust.
May 7th, 2017 at 5:07 pm
LOL @BighogHeinous!!!!
I hope you remember your name after the thrashing Joe just gave you!!!!! Funny how you are making a huge deal about Mr Cooper but wanted to bring in commie kaepernick who did the same thing ON the nfl field and was fined $11,000.00 for it!!!!!! and has done more things!!!!! The least you can do is be consistent on this topic!!!!!!
GO Bucs!!!!!!!!!!
May 7th, 2017 at 5:33 pm
Peyton Barber is a good back. But he isn’t better than McNichols and Sims is Dk’ s boy, not going anywhere. Quizz is decent but has never really done that much in his career. He helped us a ton last year though so he will be safe. Martin, I have no clue. I would cut him and save 6-7 million and get rid of his partying ways.
Plenty of good backs will become available since so many were drafted.
I would like us to trade for Jeremy Hill. Could get him for maybe a 5th and would make a nice pairing with him and McNichols. Have Quizz, Sims, and Barber as backups. That’s what I would do if I were in Licht’s position. Or Chris Ivory from Jacksonville would be a good pickup as well.
May 7th, 2017 at 5:34 pm
This was a great question… I look forward to hearing the answer: “So I say to you, If you’re ready and willing to give Riley Cooper a second chance, and have no problems with him making the squad, then why be so resistant to Doug Martin returning?”
May 7th, 2017 at 5:37 pm
Cobraboy
When is Martin motivated and healthy???
His contract year…he has no motivation. Dude could be one of the best and instead we dont even know if he is going to be on the field this year for us. Please
May 7th, 2017 at 5:46 pm
Funky, players can’t control injuries. And some players aren’t motivated by money alone.
I unrest folks being disappointed in the Buds not choosing a sexy RB pick, but I’ll trust Licht & Koetter making good decisions for the team.
FWIW, I’m rarely attracted to shiny objects or what the prevailing cool opinion is.
May 7th, 2017 at 5:53 pm
Very true.
May 7th, 2017 at 6:12 pm
Easy now! Two years? Sure, Martin has had two exceptional years, and the rest of his career has been downright garbage.
Joe will suggest Cooper has been more consistent than Martin.
Was Cooper ever busted by the NFL for taking the wrong PEDs (allegedly) in a playoff run?
In fact, Joe remembers Cooper on the field in a playoff game. Has Martin ever been in a playoff game? Isn’t that was a bellcow back is supposed to do, lead a team to the playoffs?
May 7th, 2017 at 6:22 pm
Welcoming a tryout (that cost nothing) for a Wr that is trying to grab a 4th-7th position on a roster, is a little different then welcoming one of the higher paid RB in the league that did not look good during games, got injured again, and tested positive for party drugs that will continue 3 weeks into this current year!!!!!
May 7th, 2017 at 6:25 pm
@Joe
Yeah Cooper has been consistent.
http://www.nfl.com/player/rileycooper/497282/careerstats
Consistently below average.
You skewer Doug for only having 2 good seasons, but in those 2 good seasons he was a top 3 running back in 2012. And a top 2 Rusher in 2015.
Riley Cooper has had one season that you could even come to close to being called good. And if you take it away, He averaged less than 400 yards receiving in his 4 other years as a pro.
Riley Cooper MIGHT be a good 5th WR.
Doug Martin MIGHT be a top 10 running back if he stays healthy. With as many weapons as we have. He will not face an 8 man box on every play. As he did last year. When he was hit behind the LOS more than any other starting RB in the league.
Wasn’t Doug Martin our best Pass protecting back last season?
Didnt he save multiple plays against Kansas City?
Bank on this, If Doug Martin looks good in Training camp and Preseason, He’ll be slated to return as the starter week 4. Even if Licht doesn’t come out directly and say it.
May 7th, 2017 at 6:27 pm
And I dare say that there isn’t a Running back in the league that could have carried the 2012 or 2015 Bucs Defenses to the playoffs.
May 7th, 2017 at 6:32 pm
Cobra
His injuries are like 2-4 week injuries for most guys and he takes 2-3 months. He collects checks that’s what he’s good at. 2 good years and the rest was garbage. No consistency at all from him. That’s one of the multiple reasons why he can’t be trusted. Use that 6-7 million elsewhere.
There will be a lot of good vets cut this year because of such a deep draft. We can fill in holes there
And I love the McNichols pick. I personally think he is going to be really good. Can run, catch, and a beast blocker. He has the tools to develop into a big time RB imo. Just another reason Martin should be gone. Going to take reps and hinder his development.
May 7th, 2017 at 6:45 pm
Riley Cooper will not be signed by the Bucs. The Bucs are sticking with the young guys.
May 7th, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Not sure anyone is expecting Riley Cooper to be a starter. Anyone expecting Doug Martin to be a Pro Bowl RB (again) is grasping at straws. He could be, but that’s a reach.
Two good seasons out of five years with a drug problem thrown on top (allegedly).
May 7th, 2017 at 7:35 pm
Funky, there is no such thing as a 2-4 week injury, and you have NO idea how badly he was hurt.
In ’13 he tore the labrum in his shoulder.
In ’14 it was knees and ankles almost the entire season.
In ’16 it was a bad hammy.
The years he was healthy he tore it up.
How about some objectivity?
May 7th, 2017 at 7:55 pm
Just a couple weeks a go Sims was safe eith the mcnichols pick, now Joe has changed his tune overnight. I don’t understand , from whay it looks like to me it’s a smear campaign on Chuck. This started from the commish with the twinkle toes name.. yall was quiet when he was running 4.5 ypc .. yall funny 😂😂😂
May 7th, 2017 at 8:23 pm
@Joe
I know your standpoint is that you cant rely on Martin Due to injuries.
But you’re telling me you can’t envision a healthy #22 benefiting from the massive injection of offensive talent?
Any team willing to stack the box against us will be doing so at their own peril, and all of our running backs will reap the benefits.
Like I said, If he looks good in training camp/ preseason, he will be on the roster come week 4. And if he is even 90 percent of his 2012/2015 self, he’ll be able to run for 1000 yards and a few scores in this offense.
Sure its a risk betting on Doug Martin to stay healthy. But based on everything thing I’ve heard from the GM & HC up to this point tells me thats a gamble they plan on taking.
May 7th, 2017 at 8:45 pm
Doug Martin is a man possessed. You’ll see
May 7th, 2017 at 8:47 pm
Doug I’d #1 hands down
May 7th, 2017 at 8:48 pm
Is*
May 7th, 2017 at 9:39 pm
Interesting group of backs:
Martin is a thumper who lives on YAC.
Rodgers is a scat back who can become invisible behind big guys.
Sims is an outstanding receiver.
McNicholes can run between the tackles but excels in the pass.
Barber is a jack of all trades.
Hicks is a massive true FB.
Sims is a converted QB.
The man with two countries is Alan Cross, TE/FB.
There must be some ST studs in that group.
May 7th, 2017 at 9:55 pm
Every other year Dougie goes crazy. If Sweezy the Embezzeler comes back as strong as before then this is his year. Next year we can draft his replacement. If we make it thru the playoffs no one will be whining about him then.
May 7th, 2017 at 10:14 pm
Look at it this way…
Doug Martin, Quizz Rodgers, and Peyton Barber are first and second down backs.
Sims and McNic are 3rd down backs.
Say you keep 2 of each, 1 starter and 1 back up.
Sims and McNic are safe. Quizz is likely safe. It would come down to, is Peyton Barber better than Doug Martin?
I know, it is silly to even such a stupid question, but it seems like bucs fans don’t grasp the concept that Martin is the best running back on this roster. Forget the past, Martin is still the best guy for the job. He has already impressed his coaches and teammates with his work so far this off season. He is motivated just like he was in 2015. It is unwise to bet against Martin when he has determination in his eyes.
May 7th, 2017 at 10:22 pm
Sims, if he can stay healthy, is a really really good one trick pony. He’s a 3rd down back who can catch the ball as well as anyone on the league – and he can run the ball, just not inside the tackles when the line is stacked. Carolina drafted their own Sims this year – him and McCaffery are very close to the same players with Sims being stronger and the white boy being a bit quicker – but both having the same 40, same height, both being excellent receivers and like both likely being injury plagued.
Anyways Sims is a huge huge weapon if he could just stay healthy – I wouldn’t be running him out of town quite yet. But since he’ll most likely get hurt, have backup plans ready.
May 8th, 2017 at 9:12 am
McNichols wasn’t picked to be a third down back. He’s competing for the starting job. Simple as that. Same thing every year. The best will play. It’s business. Ain’t gonna change.