FRISCO — This is no easy goodbye for the Dallas Cowboys organization, players and fans. Beloved offensive lineman Zack Martin informed the team of his intentions to retire Thursday, leaving a pretty big hole on the team's offensive line.
Martin played 11 seasons for the Cowboys, leading the offensive line for over a decade. His illustrious career ends with nine Pro Bowl and nine All-Pro selections, a historic feat for the former right guard almost guaranteed a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
He proved to be one of the lone constants in the lineup year to year, playing 162 games for Dallas. Martin's final year was cut short due to an ankle injury that he made known to be a degenerative condition he had battled for years, according to the team's website.
His decision makes for another key area of focus for the Cowboys heading into a crucial offseason. But in the immediate aftermath of his retirement, players are pouring in their appreciation.
Defensive star Micah Parsons made his feelings known, sharing a heartfelt message for Martin on his Instagram story.
"The realest thank you for everything boss!" he wrote in the post. CeeDee Lamb and others joined him in sending off their teammate in high regard.
Martin's retirement, while not a shock itself, will force further evaluation at the right guard spot. The Cowboys need improvement from their entire line heading into next season, but are now given the unfair task of replacing a Hall of Fame player.
This also marks the end the road for another tenured Cowboys' veteran. Pending the results of free agency, the Cowboys could lose veteran defensive star DeMarcus Lawrence this offseason as well.
That means the vocal veteran presence around The Star lessens by default. Dak Prescott still holds his post as the face of the franchise which certainly holds its merit.
But the departure of these figures paves the way for new faces to step up and take their place. Such a responsibility will unquestionably fall on the shoulders of Parsons.
So as Parsons celebrates the legacy of his cherished teammate, he will be tasked with carrying the torch into the next era of Cowboys football.
