Zack Martin, the Dallas Cowboys’ esteemed offensive lineman, announced his retirement from football on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at the age of 34. Martin’s illustrious career spans 11 years, during which he was named a first-team All-Pro an impressive seven times and earned nine Pro Bowl selections. His retirement marks the end of an era, not only for the Cowboys but for the entire NFL.
Drafted by the Cowboys with the 16th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, Martin quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team's offensive line. Notably, he was the only rookie to be named a first-team All-Pro in 2014, becoming just the third Cowboy to achieve this honor as a rookie. Throughout his career, Martin's exceptional play drew comparisons to former Cowboys Hall of Famer Larry Allen.
"When you look at it and you're picking that high, you want to make sure you're right," said Stephen Jones, reflecting on the draft decision.
"One thing when you read [about] Zack, when you watch Zack on the tape, it was hard to find anything that you didn't like about him," Jones added.
"Just felt that at the end of the day he was the right guy for our football team," Jones concluded.
Martin's journey with the Cowboys began as the third first-round pick dedicated to fortifying their offensive line within a four-year span. His durability and skill were immediately apparent as he did not miss a single start in his first four seasons. In December 2023, Martin underwent surgery to address bone spurs and ligament issues, showcasing his commitment to maintaining peak performance. Despite playing over 11,184 snaps, Martin was penalized for holding only seven times—a testament to his precision and discipline on the field.
"I mean those were just the accepted ones," Martin humorously remarked about his penalties.
Beyond personal accolades, Martin was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 2010 All-Decade Team, underscoring his status as one of the premier offensive linemen of his generation. His contributions were integral to the Cowboys' successes during his tenure, consistently elevating the team's play with his presence and leadership.
The announcement of Martin's retirement was a poignant moment attended by his wife Morgan, their three children—Charlie, Hudson, and Remi—and numerous former teammates. His parents also witnessed this significant milestone in his life. The gathering served as a heartfelt farewell from a player who has been pivotal both on and off the field.
Martin’s departure leaves a lasting legacy characterized by extraordinary achievements and commendable sportsmanship. His career will be remembered not only for the accolades but also for the unwavering standard of excellence he maintained. His journey through the NFL reflects both talent and tenacity—a combination that has left an indelible mark on the sport.
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