Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Doug Martin might return on Sunday

Tampa Bay's offense could get a big boost on Sunday against the Chicago Bears with the return of running back Doug Martin. Martin has been watching the Buccaneers (3-5) from the sidelines since Week 2 because of an injured hamstring.

But Martin practiced with the team on Wednesday and appeared comfortable running through position drills, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Martin, the NFL's No. 2 rusher last season with 1,402 yards, was injured in a Sept. 18 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Tampa Bay is thin at the position. Martin's replacement, Charles Sims, has been placed on injured reserve and Jacquizz Rogers is dealing with a sprained foot sustained against the Oakland Raiders in Week 8.

If neither Rogers nor Martin can play, Tampa Bay will rely on Mike James and rookie Peyton Barber to carry the rushing load.