On February 20, 2025, the Cowboys right guard Zack Martin met the owner Jerry Jones and announced his decision to hang his cleats. Over his 11-year NFL career, he became a highly decorated player, leaving the entire league shaken. During the 2024 offseason, he dismissed retirement rumors, but a season-ending ankle injury ultimately accelerated his decision.

As soon as the NFL shared the news, tributes began pouring in from football fans. Analyst and former quarterback Dan Orlovsky had a perfect response to the announcement, simply writing, “HOF.” Martin was named a first-team All-Pro seven times—the most for a guard in NFL history—tying him with legends Randall McDaniel and John Hannah.

Additionally, he also recorded nine Pro Bowls to his name. Orlovsky’s tribute shows the path ahead for the right guard who will become eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2030. In most possible scenarios, he would get a place there. In 11 seasons, the 6 feet 4 inches 315 pounds athlete played 162 games, with only 7 holding penalties.

The decision came against the backdrop of the ankle surgery. Zack Martin said in December 2024 that he wanted to get fit first. However, his contract ending in 2025 made the decision a bit easier. While it helps the Cowboys make some more cap space for free agency, the void on the ground is hard to fill.

The entire locker room respected their O-line player. So, everyone was bound to get emotional once the news of his retirement spread.

CeeDee Lamb & Co. pay heartwarming tribute to Zack Martin

QB Dak Prescott’s comments about being a Super Bowl team fired up the entire football world. Most of the legends criticized their playing style. However, his locker room stood united. The feeling definitely changed on Thursday as Zack Martin decided to bid adieu.

Receiver CeeDee Lamb responded to the news with an emotional message that read, “The freaking GOAT @thegob70 I’m 4eva grateful to have played with you.” He learned the pressure of the game under the veteran. Others also shared their heartfelt feelings about the news.

While, LB Micah Parsons shared the graphic of Zack Martin on Instagram and wrote, “The realest thank you for everything boss!” His fellow guard Tyler Smith, probably the most affected by his absence, also mentioned, “Forever grateful Brotha @thegob70.” It’s a tough pill to swallow.

A towering presence on the field and off of it, he was a soothing figure in the locker room, giving confidence to the young and upcoming players. Jerry Jones and the Cowboys front office wanted to build a team that could end their 3-decade Super Bowl drought. Their task just got a bit more herculean.