Doug Martin will get his shot at becoming the next running back reclamation project.
As Around The NFL's Chris Wesseling pointed out on a recent podcast, Martin has the chance to join the likes of Mark Ingram and Ryan Mathews as veteran tailbacks who had bust-out years after down seasons and struggling with injuries.
After earning 1,454 yards as a rookie, Martin combined for just 950 yards the past two seasons while dealing with shoulder and ankle injuries.
He was given a new lease this year under offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter, and coach Lovie Smith has already bestowed upon him the starting gig.
Martin, who is leaner and quicker this camp, believes he can have a big season.
"The sky is the limit," Martin said, via ESPN.com. "We have a lot of potential going into this year with this team. We have a lot of weapons and a lot of guys with fire in them that want to be successful. I just can't wait to get out there with them."
Smith has backed Martin throughout training camp and believes the 5-foot-9 back can lead a rushing attack that comes "right at you."
"It's an important year for Doug and for our football team to establish the run game and Doug's our starting tailback," Smith said. "We talk about the commitment to the run. He's done it before. There's no reason he can't do it again."
Martin will need help from an improved line, rife with young players, if he's going to have a bounce-back campaign.Â
The latest Around The NFL Podcast breaks down what Geno Smith's injury means for the Jets and recaps the first Hard Knocks episode in Houston.
