A year ago at this time the Bucs had a workhorse feature back and first-round fantasy pick in Doug Martin. Now, with other talent, incoming rookies, and a new coaching staff, things are less certain. What does 2014 hold for the Tampa Bay backfield?
This article at PewterReport.com outlines things largely as you'd expect. Doug Martin should get most of the early-down carries, with third-rounder Charles Sims in the passing-downs role. It also believes that speedster Jeff Demps will make the roster, primarily as a returner; Lovie Smith thinks he's the fastest guy in the league.
That leaves second-year back Mike James and Bobby Rainey as the uncertain players. James, a 2013 sixth-rounder who did well prior to breaking his ankle last season, and Rainey, who had a pair of 100-yard games late in the year, might be fighting for one roster spot.
Somewhat surprisingly, the article believes that in Jeff Tedford's new offense, it's Rainey who has the slight advantage over James. Rainey can contribute more in the passing game and on special teams.
Obviously, the top runner here is Martin, and the top wildcard is Sims, who the team liked enough to select in the third round. It's possible Sims plays well enough to carve out a larger-than-expected role, making him a nice late-round fantasy sleeper.
But dynasty owners holding either Rainey or James need to monitor the depth chart in training camp, to see which one of those players sticks as the No. 3. That player won't be a factor early in the year, but could come into value as the season moves forward.
--Andy Richardson