3 NFL Teams That Should Take a Chance on RB Doug Martin
The Oakland Raiders' recent release of veteran running back Doug Martin gives running back-needy teams the opportunity to add a dynamic vet to their locker room. Here are the three teams that should shoot their shot with the Muscle Hamster.
1. Houston Texans
This one's a no brainer. The Texans lost their bellcow back Lamar Miller to an ACL tear Saturday during the preseason. A trade for Duke Johnson helps, but there is a massive void in the backfield for Houston. There's a reason Johnson couldn't be the lead back in Cleveland, so it's naive to believe he can step up and fill that void. The Texans need a veteran who can pick up the offense quickly and produce, and that's Martin.
2. Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have a talented starting running back. No one is suggesting they need a replacement, but Dalvin Cook has not played an entire season in his short career. They drafted Alexander Mattison, but the team could use a veteran presence in that young running backs room. Doug Martin could fill the void of a seasoned vet who doesn't need to play every snap, but can step in admirably if an injury occurs to Cook.
3. New York Jets
The Jets paid up this offseason for a stud running back in Le'Veon Bell, but Bell missed an entire season of football the year prior. Yes, he's been staying in shape the entire time, but there is no way to replicate game action unless you're actually in a game. The Jets need a contingency plan if Bell proves he's lost a step or can't make it through the season. That's where Martin comes in. He can step in and fill the role Bell is supposed to if something happens in New York.