Zack Martin, the renowned guard of the Dallas Cowboys, has decided to retire, sources informed ESPN. The 34-year-old leaves behind an impressive legacy, having been selected for the Pro Bowl nine times over his 11-year tenure with the team. Martin, a first-round pick in 2014, was instrumental in shaping the Cowboys’ offensive line and was a pivotal figure in the NFL.
Martin's career is notable for its consistency and excellence. He started 162 games, only missing more than one game in a season twice, in 2020 and 2024. His resilience and performance earned him a spot on the NFL's All-Decade Team from 2010 to 2020. He was also named a first-team All-Pro on seven occasions, tying with Cowboys legends Bob Lilly and Randy White. Remarkably, his career only saw seven holding penalties accepted against him, matching his All-Pro honors.
The decision to retire was not made lightly. Martin met with Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones on Thursday to communicate his plans. His leadership within the team was profound, serving on the players' council under coaches Jason Garrett and Mike McCarthy, where he was considered one of the team's most influential voices.
Martin's contract had been adjusted last offseason to offer the Cowboys some salary cap flexibility should he choose retirement in 2025. Over the past two seasons, his contract guaranteed him $36 million, securing his position as the third-highest-paid guard in the NFL. However, injuries took their toll. In 2024, an ankle injury limited Martin to just 10 games and necessitated surgery.
Zack Martin's achievements have left an indelible mark on the NFL. His seven first-team All-Pro selections are tied with Hall of Famers Randall McDaniel and John Hannah for the most by a guard, according to ESPN Research. Since entering the league in 2014, only retired Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald has received more first-team All-Pro accolades.
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