Zack Martin’s Season Ends Early Due to Ankle Surgery
In a decision that marks the end of an illustrious season, Dallas Cowboys stalwart Zack Martin will miss the remainder of the 2024 NFL campaign. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed the news, revealing that Martin will undergo surgery on his troublesome right ankle, an ailment he has battled for several years. The decision for surgery, McCarthy noted, was unanimous, as the persistent injury has dogged the veteran guard throughout the current season, dating back to training camp.
"Zack is going to have season-ending surgery on his ankle," McCarthy announced, acknowledging the rigorous two-week preparation plan they hoped would allow Martin to return for the game against Cincinnati. However, by last Friday, it became apparent the situation was less promising than anticipated. "We started off a couple of weeks ago... Friday, things didn't look quite as good as we hoped," McCarthy elaborated.
The injury not only draws the curtain on Martin’s season but also comes amid broader considerations of his NFL journey. Now in the final stretch of his contract, Martin’s future with the league is uncertain, a topic he prefers to defer for now. "This is not the time to have those discussions. This is all I'll say about that. It's a tough situation and the most important thing on my mind is getting healthy," Martin commented. His commitment to recovery underscores the priority he places on health over contractual speculation.
Martin, who turned 34 on November 20, is far from a stranger to NFL accolades. Having graced the league for 11 seasons, he boasts an impressive résumé with seven first-team All-Pro honors and nine Pro Bowl appearances. However, the ongoing struggle with his ankle has taken a toll. His Pro Football Focus offensive grades have dropped from an exceptional 94.2 in 2021 to 65.6 in 2024, accompanied by a career-high allowance of five sacks this season.
In Martin’s absence, the Cowboys have turned to Brock Hoffman and T.J. Bass to fill the void. McCarthy spoke highly of their efforts: "Those guys have worked hard. I mean Brock's done a nice job in there. T.J., I thought he played well in Washington. The biggest thing for him is to be consistent." Though these players bring ability to the position, McCarthy admits, "We're not going to replace Zack Martin by no means. Just his presence... he's the veteran leader who leads one of the meetings." Martin's leadership and experience are as sorely missed as his on-field contributions.
Despite his setbacks, Martin's legacy is undiminished in the eyes of those around him. "Clearly a Hall of Famer. Not only for the way he plays but just first class," McCarthy praised unequivocally, highlighting the respect and admiration Martin commands among teammates and peers alike.
Beyond the professional realm, Martin leans on a robust personal support system, led by his close friend and former Cowboys center Travis Frederick. "Trav's like one of my best friends in the world. He was just calling and checking in on me. He's very aware, I've been filling him in kind of throughout the year," Martin shared. Frederick’s continued involvement exemplifies the deep bonds formed within football’s fraternity, providing Martin not just a colleague but a confidant as he navigates his current challenges.
As Martin prepares for surgery, the Cowboys grapple with the immediate repercussions of his absence on their roster and beyond. Yet, the hope remains for a full recovery and the possibility of Martin returning to the field. For now, both the Cowboys and Martin remain focused on health, providing a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience that have defined Zack Martin's extraordinary career.