Key Takeaways:
– Dallas Cowboys’ offensive guard Zack Martin indulges retirement thoughts after potential last 2024 season.
– The 33-year-old lays claim to being one of the best players in team’s history with numerous Pro Bowl and All-Pro Selections.
– Despite his all-round performance, Zack admits signs of “wear and tear” from the career-long injuries that begin to reveal themselves.
– If Martin retires, Cowboys face a significant setback with no replacement awaiting to assume his position.
The Retirement Talks Begin
One of Dallas Cowboys’ most formidable assets, Zack Martin, could draw the curtains on his illustrious career post the 2024 season. The offensive guard sparked retirement speculations during a recent interaction at the mandatory team minicamp. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Martin admitted to contemplating ending his professional run after the impending season.
“I’d be dishonest if I said that retirement hasn’t crossed my mind. After every game, it’s essential to look ahead and focus on the future,” shared Martin.
The Legacy of Zack Martin
Martin, who will turn 34 this season, is regarded as one of the Cowboys’ greatest assets. His nine Pro Bowl selections trail only the late Larry Allen, and his seven First Team All-Pro Selections tie him with Bob Lilly and Randy White in franchise history. He is currently gearing up for his final season under a revised two-year deal worth an impressive near $37 million, signed at the advent of 2023.
Throughout his sporting career, Martin showcased notable stalwartness, partaking in 100% of the offensive snaps in three of his seasons. He also appeared in at least 96% of the offensive snaps in four other seasons, confirming his crucial place in the team lineup.
The Struggle with Injuries
Yet, despite his continued exceptional performances, Martin confessed to experiencing signs of aging. He acknowledged that the “wear and tear” from sustained injuries is becoming more apparent, having missed two games due to an ankle injury in the 2023 season. Playing in just 88% of the offensive snaps, this made for a career-low record.
Elaborating on his physical state, Martin shared, “I haven’t had major injuries, but the consistent wear and tear is catching up. You have to be all-in on this thing, be obsessed with it. I think when that feeling starts to fade a little bit, then it’s probably time to move on.”
Upcoming Challenges for the Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys face predicaments on losing Martin, whose absence creates a gaping hole in the team’s right guard position. The current backup, Josh Ball, still appears green with only 13 career games and no starts to his name.
Moreover, the Cowboys have already lost Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz, two other starters in the offensive line, this offseason, making it a challenging time for the team who are eager to sign quarterback Dak Prescott to a long-term contract.
Even so, Martin stresses the importance of listening to his body when deciding on his future. He insists on taking appropriate measures to ensure his well-being, putting his health and readiness for Sundays’ games foremost. No matter the challenges ahead, the upcoming 2024 season will be a decisive one for Zack Martin and the Dallas Cowboys.