PORTLAND, Ore. (October 28, 2013)- Portland Lumberjacks running back Doug Martin has experienced a labrum injury that is expected to keep him out of action for several weeks. While there was at first speculation that the injury would keep Martin sidelined for the duration of the season, it appears that is not the case. When asked if his season was over, Martin responded “no. Right now I’m just doing treatment and taking it day by day and seeing how it feels.” Despite his eagerness to return, Martin has been ruled out for tonight’s clash with the Carolina Panthers.
The question moving forward is if this injury will cost Martin a spot on the Lumberjacks roster. After being drafted in the second round, the runner that posted such an impressive rookie campaign has drastically underachieved. Through six games, he has only rounded up 456 yards and 1 touchdown. The lack of production raises serious questions as to whether it’s worth keeping him through an injury. “We don’t know what to do yet. We’ll have to look at the market and see who’s out there,” said GM Lukas Mihailovich.
Martin will be replaced by Rams back Daryl Richardson. Richardson has also put up rather miniscule numbers thus far into the season. The team is remaining positive about the situation though. “Getting a chance to start and be our main guy, we’re hoping Daryl will take this opportunity and get something going.” Either way, it appears the Lumberjacks may be in a bind at the running back position moving forward.
The Lumberjacks, founded in 2013, are a part of the NFL from Portland, Oregon. Jeld-Wen stadium is their home field. “We’re chopping down the competition!” Contact Public relations specialist Erica Scardelletti at scardeel@dukes.jmu.edu or (703)-555-1236 or visit http://sites.jmu.edu/sportspr/category/portland-lumberjacks/ for more information.