Zack Martin Set to Announce Retirement from NFL: What It Means for the Cowboys and Fans

FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys may soon say goodbye to one of their all-time greats, Zack Martin. The talented right guard is expected to retire this offseason.

Martin plans to inform the team before free agency begins. After 11 incredible years with the Cowboys, a special event will be held to honor his legacy in the next couple of weeks.

Drafted 16th overall in 2014, Martin quickly made a name for himself. He was selected to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and has since earned nine All-Pro selections and nine Pro Bowl nods. He was even recognized on the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team.

Over his remarkable career, Martin started 152 games. However, he faced challenges in recent years, including a significant ankle injury in 2024. He revealed that he had been dealing with a degenerative condition for some time, yet he continued to play at an elite level for the Cowboys.

Replacing a player of Martin’s caliber won’t be easy. As of now, Brock Hoffman is set to take over the role. He filled in well for Martin when he was injured in 2024.

Hoffman will have support from T.J. Bass, a promising young player, as they navigate this transition. The Cowboys offensive line is changing, especially after Tyron Smith left for free agency in 2024. This marks the end of an era that included Martin, Smith, and Travis Frederick, who retired in 2020 due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

Now, Tyler Smith and Terence Steele emerge as the senior members of the O-line, bringing the knowledge and wisdom they gained from Martin.