Future of Cowboys’ Zack Martin and Tyron Smith Uncertain Amid Team Struggles

FRISCO — On the same weekend that the future of former Cowboys tackle Tyron Smith was being discussed in conjunction with the New York Jets, the status of another All-Pro future Hall of Fame offensive lineman, Zack Martin, also came under scrutiny. Currently playing through a shoulder injury, Martin faces the same potential career endpoint as Smith did: possible retirement or a team change.

Tyron Smith, who was the ninth overall pick in 2011, and Zack Martin, selected 16th overall in 2014, were cornerstones in the restructuring of the Cowboys’ offensive line. Smith departed the Cowboys during the previous free agency period. The 33-year-old Smith participated in every snap during the 2024 season until sitting out due to a neck/shoulder injury, a recurrence of past issues during his days in Dallas.

Zack Martin, nearing his 34th birthday, has managed to remain on the field all season despite a practice regimen that mimics Smith’s former routine of limited participation to manage season-long injuries. Observers have noted a decline in Martin’s statistical performance, possibly due to his health, age, or the competition faced. Notably, Martin has allowed an elevated pressure rate of 8.4% and given up five sacks in the first 10 games, according to NextGen Stats.

Despite the challenges, Martin’s presence is considered highly influential. Rookie players cite him as a standard-bearer. «He’s the standard,» remarked one rookie. «You got to uplift the standard and his standard is pretty high. It’s making us better as a collective.» Another teammate emphasized Martin’s mentorship, expressing deep gratitude for the veteran’s guidance.

Previously, Martin hinted that the current 2024 season might be his last, understandable given his age and contract situation. When questioned about his future during training camp, he was non-committal, stating that he is taking things «one week at a time.» His distinguished career, marked by nine Pro Bowls and seven All-Pro selections, signals Hall of Fame potential, though playoff success eludes him. Martin acknowledged the shortfall in postseason achievements, noting, «We’re trying to win them all, and unfortunately, we’ve come up short.»

The Cowboys are unlikely to make a significant playoff push this season, largely due to injury troubles on defense and a challenging schedule. Nevertheless, there remains confidence in Martin’s capabilities. «We talk about the ebb and flow of football games,» coach Mike McCarthy said. «Zack has maintained a high standard and we have every confidence he’ll play to that.»

As discussions arise around the potential changes in Dallas for the 2025 season, Zack Martin represents one of several pivotal decisions. With a 3-6 record this season, amidst expectations of a playoff recovery, Dallas is facing reassessment in personnel and possibly coaching staff. The continued presence of Martin, a long-time figure of stability, may again be evaluated as the Cowboys plot their future course.