Injury Sidelines Zack Martin for 2024 Season: A Turning Point for the Cowboys
Zack Martin, the veteran right guard for the Dallas Cowboys, will miss the remainder of the 2024 NFL season following a unanimous decision for him to undergo surgery on his ailing right ankle. Martin, who has been a cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive line, confirmed that the ankle issue has plagued him not just throughout this season, but over several years, dating back to training camp.
The Decision for Surgery
Head coach Mike McCarthy made the difficult announcement, highlighting the extensive deliberation that went into making the call. "Zack is going to have season-ending surgery on his ankle," McCarthy stated, emphasizing the hope that initially existed for Martin's recovery. "We started off a couple of weeks ago, we felt with the two weeks prior to Cincinnati, we felt this was a good path for him to try to get back for the Cincinnati game. But as he went through the protocol and the planning, Friday, things didn't look quite as good as we hoped."
Martin himself echoed the sentiment of an ongoing struggle, admitting the frustration of not being able to finish the season. "It's something I've been dealing with all year, back to training camp, really, over the last few years," Martin commented. The decision came after a heartfelt discussion with Associate Athletic Trainer Britt Brown, aiming to prioritize his long-term health over immediate returns.
A Rich Legacy and Uncertain Future
As Martin faces this setback, his storied career remains a point of pride. Turning 34 on November 20, Martin is in the final year of his contract, marking his 11th season with the NFL. During his tenure, he has earned first-team All-Pro honors seven times and made nine Pro Bowl appearances. His contribution to the Cowboys has been immeasurable, with head coach McCarthy praising his impact both on and off the field. "Clearly a Hall of Famer. Not only for the way he plays but just first class," McCarthy said, adding that Martin commands immense respect and has been a joy to work with.
However, Martin's Pro Football Focus offensive grades have shown a decline in recent years, dropping from 94.2 in 2021 to 65.6 in 2024. Additionally, he has allowed a career-high in sacks, with four in 2023 and five in 2024. These statistics reflect the physical toll that professional football has taken on Martin, sparking speculation about his future in the sport. Teammate Micah Parsons even hinted at the possibility of this being Martin's final year.
The Impact on the Cowboys Lineup
The absence of Martin leaves significant shoes to fill on the Cowboys' offensive line. Brock Hoffman and T.J. Bass have stepped up in his stead, with McCarthy acknowledging their efforts. "Those guys have worked hard. I mean Brock's done a nice job in there. T.J., I thought he played well in Washington. The biggest thing for him is to be consistent," McCarthy stated, noting the unique challenges each player faces as opponents now have more game tape on them.
Martin's veteran leadership will be sorely missed, especially in the locker room and meeting spaces where he has played a pivotal role. "He's going to be missed. We're not going to replace Zack Martin by no means. Just his presence...he's the veteran leader who leads one of the meetings," McCarthy remarked, describing Martin as a linchpin in team culture and cohesion.
A Personal and Professional Crossroads
As Martin weighs his next steps, he remains focused on recovery. "This is not the time to have those discussions. This is all I'll say about that. It's a tough situation and the most important thing on my mind is getting healthy," Martin said, deferring any decisions about his football future until he is once again fit.
Throughout this adversity, Martin has leaned on the support of former Cowboys teammate Travis Frederick, describing him as a crucial part of his support system. "Trav's like one of my best friends in the world. He was just calling and checking in on me. He's very aware, I've been filling him in kind of throughout the year," Martin shared, reflecting on the camaraderie that extends beyond the football field.
In the face of this personal battle, Martin’s commitment to getting healthy is indicative of his enduring professional spirit and resilience, underscoring why he remains a revered figure in the realm of professional football. As the Cowboys navigate the rest of the season without him, his influence and legacy endure as a testament to his formidable career.