The
Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be looking to trade Martin, whose star has faded after a brilliant rookie season -- 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2012. He ran for only 494 and 456 yards the last two seasons, with 3.7 and 3.6 per-carry averages, respectively. That's what you call a stunning drop-off, but let's take a closer look. His blocking deteriorated.
In 2012, Martin averaged 2.42 yards
before contact, according to ESPN Stats & Information -- a stat that often reflects the effectiveness of the blocking in front of a running back. In 2014, Martin's average slipped to 1.90, meaning defenders got to him a half-yard sooner than before.
Clearly, Martin has ability. Is he worth a fourth-round pick in a trade? In 2013, the Jets dealt a fourth-rounder for Ivory, but they got him to sign a three-year contract. Martin has only one year left on his rookie contract ($1.3 million base), so it doesn't pay to surrender a draft pick for a one-and-done player -- unless they get him for seventh-rounder. They could extend his contract, but why would either side want to do that at this point?
The Jets' best bet is to tap into the draft talent, but if the first two days come and go with no running back, it might make sense to check into Martin.