End of an Era: Cowboys Star G Zack Martin Says Goodbye as He Confirms Retirement Date.
DALLAS, TX – The Dallas Cowboys and their fanbase are preparing for the end of an era as Zack Martin, one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history, has officially announced his retirement from professional football. The eight-time First-Team All-Pro and future Hall of Famer confirmed in a heartfelt press conference that the 2025 NFL season will be his last, bringing an illustrious career to a close.
Martin’s Announcement: A Bittersweet Goodbye.
In front of a packed media room at The Star in Frisco, Texas, the 33-year-old Martin took the podium with visible emotion, flanked by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, head coach Mike McCarthy, and several of his longtime teammates.
“This game has given me everything,” Martin said. “From the moment I was drafted in 2014, I knew I was stepping into something special. Playing for the Cowboys, blocking for some of the best backs in the game, and battling in the trenches every Sunday—it’s been an incredible journey. But after a lot of thought and conversations with my family, I’ve decided that this upcoming season will be my last.”
Martin, a nine-time Pro Bowler, has been a pillar of stability for the Cowboys’ offensive line, widely regarded as one of the greatest guards of his generation. Known for his incredible technique, toughness, and leadership, his absence will leave a significant void for the team moving forward.
A Legacy of Greatness
Selected 16th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame, Martin immediately established himself as a dominant force. He earned Pro Bowl honors in his rookie season and never looked back, becoming the backbone of the Cowboys’ offensive line alongside legends like Tyron Smith and Travis Frederick. Over his 12-year career, Martin played a crucial role in protecting quarterbacks like Tony Romo, Dak Prescott, and Cooper Rush, while paving the way for Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard in the ground game.
Among his numerous accolades:
9× Pro Bowl selections (2014–2022)
8× First-Team All-Pro (2014, 2016, 2018–2023)
NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
Named to the Cowboys Ring of Honor (expected post-retirement)
Zero sacks allowed in multiple seasons
Jerry Jones, who made the decision to draft Martin over a flashy skill-position player in 2014, took a moment to reflect on what the star lineman meant to the franchise.
“Zack Martin changed the identity of this football team,” Jones said. “He’s one of the greatest linemen to ever put on a Cowboys uniform. His work ethic, his leadership, and his ability to dominate on the field made him special. We are forever grateful for what he has given to this franchise.”
Why Now? The Decision Behind Retirement
While Martin is still playing at an elite level, he acknowledged that the physical toll of a long career influenced his decision.
“It’s not easy to walk away when you still love the game,” Martin admitted. “But the body starts talking to you, and I want to be able to enjoy time with my family without pain. My wife and kids have sacrificed a lot for me to chase this dream, and now it’s time to give back to them.”
Sources close to Martin say he began contemplating retirement over the past two seasons, especially after witnessing the early retirement of longtime teammate Travis Frederick due to health concerns. The grind of an NFL season, the weekly battles in the trenches, and the demands of maintaining peak performance all factored into his final decision.
Cowboys’ Future Without Martin
With Martin’s departure, the Cowboys must address a significant hole on their offensive line. Dallas has traditionally invested heavily in its O-line, but replacing a future Hall of Famer is no small task.
“We’ll explore all options,” Coach Mike McCarthy said. “Zack is irreplaceable, but we have young talent that will need to step up. We’re confident in our group, but it’s definitely a loss that will be felt.”
Expect the Cowboys to be aggressive in both the draft and free agency as they look to find Martin’s successor. The team could also lean on Tyler Smith, the young and versatile lineman, to help anchor the interior.
Fan and Player Reactions
The news of Martin’s impending retirement has sent shockwaves through Cowboys Nation. Fans flooded social media with tributes, thanking him for his years of dominance and leadership.
Dak Prescott, who has benefited from Martin’s protection for most of his career, posted an emotional tribute:
“Can’t even put into words what Zack has meant to this team and to me personally. The best to ever do it. Thank you, my brother! #CowboysLegend”
Former Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott also shared his thoughts:
“Big Z was a beast. Best guard in the league for a decade. Appreciate everything you did for me and for this team. Enjoy retirement, bro!”
A Hall of Fame Career?
As soon as Martin officially retires, the Hall of Fame debate will begin—but in reality, there’s no debate at all. Martin is considered a first-ballot Hall of Famer, with his credentials making him one of the best guards in NFL history.
Pro Football Hall of Fame analyst Rick Gosselin stated, “Zack Martin is one of the easiest Hall of Fame decisions we’ll ever see. He’s in the same category as Larry Allen, John Hannah, and other all-time greats. His resume speaks for itself.”
Expect Martin to be enshrined in Canton, Ohio, in 2031, when he becomes eligible for induction.
What’s Next for Zack Martin?
Though he is stepping away from the game as a player, Martin made it clear that he isn’t disappearing from the sport entirely.
“Football has been my life, and it will continue to be in some capacity,” he said. “I don’t know if coaching is in my future, but I want to stay connected to the game. Maybe I’ll be back in Dallas in some role down the road.”
There is also speculation that Martin could transition into broadcasting or front-office work, given his deep knowledge of the game and leadership qualities.
Final Farewell
With one more season left to play, Martin will have a farewell tour of sorts in 2025, giving Cowboys fans a chance to celebrate one of the franchise’s greatest players. The team is expected to honor him in multiple ways, including a Zack Martin Appreciation Game at AT&T Stadium.
As he embarks on his final NFL season, one thing is clear: Zack Martin’s legacy is cemented in Cowboys history. His dominance, leadership, and impact on the game will never be forgotten.
“It’s been an honor to wear the star on my helmet,” Martin concluded. “Now, let’s go out and finish this thing the right way.”
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