Doug Martin enters drug treatment facility, suspended four games

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin has checked into a drug treatment facility after being informed of a four games suspension for violating the NFL's policy on substances of abuse.

Martin was declared inactive before Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints. He was also excused from practice on Wednesday before the announcement came out.

“I was notified last week of a four-game suspension for violating the league’s drug policy,” Martin said in a statement. “My initial instinct was to appeal the suspension and finish the season with my teammates. However, after numerous discussions with people close to me - including Coach Koetter - I am starting the suspension immediately so I can enter a treatment facility and receive the help I truly need. On the field, I must be strong and determined to push through both pain and injuries to become an elite NFL running back. Off the field, I have tried that same approach in my personal life. My shortcomings in this area have taught me both that I cannot win these personal battles alone and that there is no shame in asking for help. I sincerely apologize to the Glazer family, General Manager Jason Licht and the entire Tampa Bay organization, my teammates and our tremendous fans. This was not the season I envisioned and I have let everyone down, including myself. However, adversity yields opportunity and I ask for your support in my battle to overcome these personal issues.”

The Buccaneers are expected to start Jacquizz Rodgers in his absence.

A hamstring injury forced Martin to miss six weeks of the season but he recorded 421 yards on the season.