Buccaneers' Peyton Barber: Could see increased role early in season

Barber could see extra work during the first three games of the regular season while Doug Martin serves a suspension, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

First, Barber must overcome the uphill battle he faces in earning a roster spot, although Martin's absence for the first three games certainly improves his odds.The 22-year-old flashed some aptitude in the passing game during Sunday's practice and has also drawn praise from coach Dirk Koetter for his work ethic and power running, but his pass protection on third down remains a work in progress. Barber's fate likely hinges on his performance in preseason games, with the fact that he was able to prove his mettle in multiple games during the 2016 season also counting as a point in his favor.