Zack Martin, the Dallas Cowboys’ stalwart guard, has informed the team he’ll retire this offseason after 11 remarkable seasons. The future Hall of Famer spent his entire NFL career with Dallas, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier offensive linemen.
The decision comes as a vindication of the Cowboys’ 2014 draft strategy — selecting Martin with the 16th overall pick instead of fan-favorite Johnny Manziel. That choice proved transformative for Dallas’s offensive line.
Martin’s legacy includes an impressive nine Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors, earning him a spot on the NFL’s 2010 All-Decades Team. The 34-year-old veteran’s departure creates both challenges and opportunities for the Cowboys’ roster management.
His retirement timing could actually help Dallas navigate their tight salary cap situation.
The financial implications are significant — Martin’s contract restructure from last season included three void years, leaving $26 million in dead money. However, the Cowboys can strategically manage this burden by processing his retirement after June 1, splitting the cap hit between two seasons.
Safe to assume the Cowboys will process this retirement after June 1st, splitting up the $26M+ of dead cap into $10.6M this season, $15.8M next.
By utilizing the post-June 1 designation, Dallas would carry $10.6 million in 2025 and $15.8 million in 2026 — critical flexibility as they prepare for Micah Parsons’ upcoming contract extension.
Martin’s December ankle surgery marked his final NFL appearance, but his retirement announcement timing shows continued loyalty to the organization. By deciding before free agency, he’s helping the front office better plan their offseason strategy.
The Cowboys’ current cap constraints make Martin’s careful exit particularly valuable. While replacing his on-field excellence won’t be easy, the financial planning gives Dallas options to address multiple roster needs.
His Canton-bound career stands as testament to the Cowboys’ draft acumen and the value of elite offensive line play in the modern NFL.
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