As the Dallas Cowboys navigate a challenging season, fans might need to brace for more disappointment on the horizon. This year’s frugal approach to free agency by the Cowboys’ front office has already led to notable exits, and the trend could continue with more stars set to hit the open market in 2025.
Seven-time All-Pro guard Zack Martin, a cornerstone of Dallas’ offensive line since he was drafted in 2014, is among those players potentially playing his final season in a Cowboys uniform. While Martin has been a consistent performer over his 11-year career, Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report suggests that Dallas may not pursue an extension, noting Martin’s slight decline in pass protection efficiency. Knox observes that “in pass protection, the soon-to-be 34-year-old just hasn’t looked as sharp as he did in years past,” as Martin has given up more pressures this season than in recent memory. He attributes this to Martin’s reduced ability to recover from missed initial blocks, which has impacted Dallas’ offensive consistency.
However, while Martin may not be in his prime, he remains one of the league’s most effective run blockers. Knox sees Martin as a prime candidate for teams on the cusp of playoff contention, such as the Chicago Bears or Los Angeles Chargers. These franchises, both with improving rosters and ambitions for deeper postseason runs, could view Martin as the ideal veteran presence to bolster their offensive line.
Martin’s potential departure would mark a significant shift for Dallas. Since Jerry Jones has deprioritized free-agent spending in recent years, many veterans have departed, often with younger, unproven players stepping into roles previously occupied by established stars. Losing a player of Martin’s caliber would certainly weaken Dallas’ offensive line, which has long been one of the team’s greatest strengths.
For now, Cowboys fans may need to cherish each game with Martin in Dallas blue. His impact over the years has been immense, and should he leave, his departure will symbolize yet another shift in the Cowboys’ journey forward, a journey that may see them rely more heavily on younger talent.
