INDIANAPOLIS -- Doug Martin's agent, Brian Murphy, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had preliminary discussions Wednesday at the combine regarding a new contract, but nothing is imminent.
More substantial discussions regarding a new deal are not expected to take place until after the combine, according to Murphy. Martin has expressed a desire to remain with the team, while the Buccaneers have expressed a desire to re-sign the Pro Bowl running back before he hits free agency.
General manager Jason Licht updated the team’s stance when he addressed the media Wednesday.
"There are obstacles in a negotiation. We haven't hit those obstacles yet," Licht said. "But we're going to talk and we're going to try and get something done. And I feel pretty optimistic about it. Right now, there's no reason to be nervous about that."
Martin, who had a base salary of $1,315,572 this past season, did not have his fifth-year option of $5.6 million picked up last offseason. He went on to be the league's second-leading rusher in 2015 with 1,402 yards, behind only Minnesota's Adrian Peterson (1,485). The 27-year-old could cash in, with many of the top running backs making $7-8 million per year.
The Buccaneers are weighing other options in free agency and the draft if talks with Martin fall through. They also have faith in running back Charles Sims moving forward.