Doug Martin Will Enter Drug Treatment Facility

Buccaneers RB Doug Martin revealed that he failed a drug test and will serve a four-game suspension, and announced that he’s entering rehab.

Martin’s statement, released by the Bucs:

“I was notified last week of a four-game suspension for violating the league’s drug policy. 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.”

Martin, 27, signed a new deal with Tampa before the season, but struggled on the field, both with injury and ineffectiveness as the season went on. He was benched for the Bucs’ Week 16 game with the team’s playoff hopes on the line, and coach Dirk Koetter announced earlier today that Martin would be stepping away for “personal issues.”