Cowboys owner Jerry Jones makes feelings known about Zack Martin's season-ending injury
Dallas Cowboys guard Zack Martin has been one of the best guards and offensive linemen in the NFL since he was drafted in the first round by the team in 2014. Martin has been named to nine Pro Bowls and nine All-Pro selections while being one of the most consistent and reliable blockers in the NFL for the last decade.
The Cowboys, last playing on Thanksgiving, have won two games in a row with division wins over the Washington Commanders and New York Giants. After picking up their second win against the Giants, they received the harsh news that Martin had suffered a season-ending injury after injuring his right ankle against the Giants.
Martin is 34 and in a contract year. Before the injury occurred, there were already talks of the star guard retiring from football. According to owner Jerry Jones, Martin's injury isn't considered career-ending, but rather just season-ending.
Jones said via Cowboys reporter Jon Machota:
"This shouldn't be viewed as end to his playing (career) at all. ... It should be viewed as the remainder of this season, and only that."
Micah Parsons shows support for Zack Martin following his season-ending ankle injury
It's safe to say Zack Martin's injury has affected the Dallas Cowboys locker room. Anytime a player goes down, it hurts for teammates to see, especially when it is a veteran leader such as Martin.
Dallas Cowboys star edge rusher Micah Parsons put it perfectly. He said he felt saddened seeing Martin's season end via injury, especially in a contract year. He understands there's a possibility of Martin retiring, but hopes he plays another year.
Parsons said via ESPN's Todd Archer:
"I really just hate to see him go out like this. Last year of his deal and because of everything he really meant to this team, the work he put in, the time, effort, man, it’s just truly, it’s sickening for us because of how important he is to the team. But my heart and I’m just saddened that it went like this.’’
Parsons continued:
"I think he will retire before he plays for anybody else. … He will never play for another team. I just hope he’s got one more year left in his tank. … I want one more year."
Martin has played in the NFL for 11 seasons and has played over 10,000 career snaps. Martin will be a free agent this offseason, and he will have to mull his decision on whether or not he wants to return to football for another year.
If Zack Martin does return, it will likely be on a cheap one-year deal. Do you think Zack Martin will make a comeback next year?