Free Agency Frenzy: Running Back

With free agency being a week away, I want to take a in depth look at each position where I will provide my top 5 players that best fit our Buccaneers team. I'm going to start with running back as I don't feel its necessary to do the QB position with the team having Jameis Winston. Here is my top 5 running backs that the Bucs should have interest in.

1. Doug Martin, 27  5'11 223 1,402 yds 4.9 avg 6 tds

Martin had a terrific season last year and was easily the most consistent and best player last year for the Bucs. Martin is a great fit in Koetters offense and should only grow as a player with a more firmer grasp of it in year 2. Martin is looking for the big money, as he is already 27 and running backs start to deteriorate after 30. The Bucs and Martin have mutual interest.

2. Chris Ivory, 27  6'0 222 1,070 yds 4.1 avg 7 tds

Ivory is a power runner who has immense strength and can just run over defenders with ease at times. He would mesh well with Charles Sims who is more flash and speed, providing a good running duo for the Bucs. Ivory should be pretty good value and shouldn't command more than 5 million a year.

3. Lamar Miller, 25  5'10 225 872 yds 4.5 avg  8 tds

Miller is a eletric runner, has breakaway speed in the open field, and can catch the ball as well. Him and Sims would be dynamic duo which would make the offense more diverse. Miller has a nose for the endzone having 16 tds over the past two years. With the Dolphins, some have said he should be used more, if he comes to Tampa, he will definitely be featured more. Miller will be higher in salary due to his age, but he is dynamic making it worth it.

4. Chris Johnson, 30  5'11 203  814 yds 4.2 avg 3 tds

Johnson is similar to Miller, he has pure speed and get to the edge in a hurry. If the Bucs went this route, then they clearly have their eyes set on the loaded 2017 draft class at running back. Johnson could be signed to a cheap 1 to 2 year deal, and help carry the load with Charles Sims.

5. Matt Forte, 30  6'2 218  898 yds 4.1 avg 4 tds

Forte would be a interesting pick up, the guy is still a really good player. I wouldn't mind the Bucs picking him up for the short term, and then draft a running back in next years draft.

It will be interesting to see what direction the Bucs go at the running back position. I think the first option is still very likely.