On Tuesday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced they had released veteran running back Doug Martin as well as defensive tackle Chris Baker.

Martin, who played in two Pro Bowls and would have made close to $7 million this year. However, over the last two seasons has averaged less than 3.0 yards per carry. Martin (29), was benched for Peyton Barber, a second-year rusher, for the last three games this past season. In Week 15, Martin was deactivated for a Monday night game versus Atlanta for a violation of team rules.

Baker, who is 30, was signed to upgrade the defensive tackle position over then starter Clinton McDonald. He is released only one year after signing a deal for three-years and $15.75 million.

In 2017, Baker recorded 33 tackles, a half-sack and defended two passes. In contrast, McDonald, in only three starts, had 5.0 quarterback sacks. Baker would have had a guaranteed $3 million owed to him on the fifth day of the new NFL year; instead Tampa Bay will save more than $4.87 million by making this move.

While many considered Baker a good personality for the locker room, his effort during practice was of concern. Just as it was while he played with the Washington Redskins.

During Week 16 things took a turn for the worse. Baker committed a costly penalty that allowed the Carolina Panthers to score the game winning touchdown. Teammates became upset due to lack of remorse on the part of Baker.

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In 2015, Martin finished the season with 1,402 rushing yards, which was second to Adrian Peterson in the league and the second most in the running back’s career.

Martin leaves the Bucs with 4,632 yards rushing, which is fourth in franchise history behind just James Wilder, Warrick Dunn and Mike Alstott. Martin rushed for 100 yards or more in 11 games placing him second in that statistical category with Tampa Bay.

In 2016, the back signed a deal for five years and $35.75 million, which included guaranteed money of $15 million. However, he was suspended that season by the NFL for four games for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drugs policy and entered rehab.

Because Martin had engaged in what was determined to be conduct detrimental to the team, the Buccaneers are not required to pay any of the guaranteed money of his contract, which made his release on Tuesday easier.