The End of an Era: Zack Martin to Miss 2024 NFL Season Due To Ankle Surgery
In a blow to the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL community, star offensive lineman Zack Martin will miss the remainder of the 2024 season due to ankle surgery. The decision to proceed with surgery was unanimous, as Martin has grappled with the persisting injury for several years. This news was announced by Head Coach Mike McCarthy, who emphasized the challenge of replacing such a pivotal presence on the field.
“Zack is going to have season-ending surgery on his ankle,” McCarthy stated. He elaborated on the timeline leading up to the decision, explaining that the hope was initially for Martin to make a return for the upcoming game against Cincinnati. However, despite following the planned protocol, it became apparent that recovery without surgery was not feasible. “As he went through the protocol and planning, Friday, things didn’t look quite as good as we hoped,” McCarthy added.
For Martin, battling this ankle problem has been a familiar struggle. “It's something I've been dealing with all year, back to training camp, really, over the last few years,” the veteran lineman shared. This lingering issue has not only sidelined him physically but has also impacted his performance—a fact that is reflected in the significant drop in his Pro Football Focus offensive grade, from 94.2 in 2021 to 65.6 in 2024. This season, Martin has allowed a career-high of five sacks, a statistic that speaks volumes about the necessity of his imminent surgery.
A Storied Career on Hold
Martin’s contributions to the Cowboys over his celebrated 11-season career are undeniable. As he approaches the final year of his contract, the focus shifts from his on-field prowess to his health and recovery. Martin boasts seven first-team All-Pro honors and nine Pro Bowl appearances, achievements that underscore his status as one of the preeminent guards in the league. McCarthy did not hold back his praise, calling Martin “clearly a Hall of Famer” for both his performance and his character, describing him as “first class.”
While fans and teammates will feel his absence, it's clear that Martin's influence extends beyond his physical presence on the field. “He's going to be missed. 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,” McCarthy lamented, underscoring the void left by Martin’s injury.
Stepping Into the Breach
With Martin sidelined, the Cowboys look towards other options to fill the gap. Brock Hoffman and T.J. Bass have been stepping in, working tirelessly to hold down the fort in Martin’s stead. McCarthy has noted their efforts, acknowledging, “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.” While it's clear that neither Hoffman nor Bass can fully replicate what Martin brings to the table, their dedication is critical to keeping the team competitive.
Martin’s absence not only impacts gameplay but also the locker room atmosphere, where his leadership and experience serve as an anchor. This transition period will test the resolve of a team that relies heavily on its veterans to navigate the challenges of the season.
The Human Element
Despite the inevitable discussions surrounding his contract and future with the team, Martin emphasizes that his current focus is on recovery. “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 stated.
Among those supporting Martin during this challenging time is his close friend Travis Frederick, himself a former Cowboys lineman. “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.
As Martin embarks on this uncertain chapter, both his teammates and fans watch and wait, hopeful for his return to form. His legacy, both as a player and as a leader, speaks volumes about the impact one individual can have on a team and its culture. Meanwhile, the NFL waits for one of its brightest talents to make a triumphant return, even if that means taking time away from the gridiron to heal.