It appears that no one is immune to the injury troubles that have plagued the Dallas Cowboys, with one of the iron men over the last decade, Zack Martin, having season-ending ankle surgery.
Thought to target a return against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night, it became apparent that the seven-time All-Pro would have to be shelved for the remaining games.
But there's another layer to this. "Gob" is essentially out of contract at season's end, and at 34 years old, there is now a real conversation to be had about one of the Cowboys' staples since 2014 hanging up the cleats.
While there's still a lot of water to go under that bridge, head coach Mike McCarthy has given his thoughts on Martin and the type of person he is.
"He's clearly a Hall of Famer," McCarthy said. "Not only just for the way he plays but just first class. He just commands a lot of respect, same person every single day, hardworking, true team guy, puts the team first. He's been a joy to work with, and I can't say enough great things about him."
Martin excelled in every facet of his game and had only missed 11 games in 11 seasons prior to this year. He is the true definition of an iron man. But there's more.
One of Martin's most famous stats is that he has more First-Team All-Pro selections (seven) than holding calls, and in 162 of his games, he's totaled just 21 penalties.
Part of the foundation at The Star is Martin's ability to not only play at a high level but also help teach and bring along the next generation with T.J. Bass, Tyler Guyton, Cooper Beebe, and Brock Hoffman, all beneficiaries of Zack imparting his wisdom onto the offensive line room.
While there is still hope that Martin will continue in 2025, there is a very real chance that this is the last time we've seen him in a Cowboys uniform. And for a player who gave so much to the cause, and did so at a high level for over a decade, going out like this will be tough to stomach.
It might be the end of a glorious era with Martin at right guard, and frankly, one that we aren't sure we're ready for.
