One of the greatest offensive lineman in NFL history, Zack Martin, has informed the Dallas Cowboys of his decision to retire after 11 incredible seasons.
Martin, an eight-time All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowler, was set to become a free agent for the first time in his career after completing a six-year contract extension.
However, rather than test the market ahead of his age-35 season, the decorated right guard has chosen to walk away from the game.
Drafted in the first round in 2014, Martin became a cornerstone of a dominant Cowboys offensive line, lining up alongside fellow first-rounders Tyron Smith and Travis Frederick.
His presence helped define Dallas’ offensive identity through both the Tony Romo and Dak Prescott eras.
Over the course of his career, Martin earned seven first-team All-Pro selections, a mark that ties him with Hall of Famers John Hannah and Randall McDaniel for the most by a guard in NFL history.
Among all offensive linemen, only four – Jim Otto, Ron Mix, Anthony Munoz, and Jim Parker – earned more.
Martin’s resume all but guarantees his eventual enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, likely as part of the Class of 2030.
Financially, Martin’s retirement will have ramifications for Dallas. His $84 million extension, signed in 2018, initially secured the Cowboys eight years of control over their star lineman.
However, ahead of the 2023 season, Martin held out and successfully negotiated $36.85 million in guaranteed money for the final two years of his contract.
With his decision to step away, Dallas will absorb $26.46 million in dead cap space.
The Cowboys had already navigated a complex salary cap situation this offseason, restructuring Martin’s deal in past years to create flexibility.
However, his departure leaves a significant void on the offensive line – both in leadership and performance.
Few offensive linemen in NFL history have matched Martin’s dominance and consistency.
As a key figure on the 2010s All-Decade Team, he will be remembered as one of the finest guards ever to play the game.
Now, his next stop appears destined for Canton, Ohio.
What are your thoughts on Martin’s decision to retire? … Where do you rank him among the top offensive lineman of this generation???
