Jerry Jones Brought to Tears Speaking on Dallas Cowboys Legend

A Day of Emotion at Cowboys Headquarters

A wave of emotion swept through Cowboys headquarters as Zack Martin, a future Hall of Famer and one of the most dominant offensive linemen in NFL history, announced his retirement. The 11-year veteran delivered a heartfelt farewell, reflecting on his journey with the Dallas Cowboys, while owner Jerry Jones fought back tears in admiration of the legendary player.

A Draft-Day Decision That Changed Everything

Looking back to the 2014 NFL Draft, the moment that shaped Martin’s career almost never happened. Jerry Jones, a charismatic and passionate leader, initially had his sights set on drafting Johnny Manziel, an electrifying quarterback who captivated fans. However, after intense deliberation—and some persuasion from his son and Cowboys executive vice president, Stephen Jones—the team chose Zack Martin with the 16th overall pick. What seemed like a controversial decision at the time turned out to be one of the greatest draft choices in franchise history.

During Martin’s retirement press conference, Jones joked about the tension in the war room that day.

“The reason you’re sitting in the middle, I think, is because they wanted to separate me and Stephen [Jones],” he said with a smile. “I still have knots on my chin from him kicking me under the table when we were discussing that draft pick.”

Fast forward 11 years, and Martin has cemented himself as one of the most accomplished offensive linemen in NFL history. With nine All-Pro selections and multiple Pro Bowl appearances, his career will undoubtedly earn him a bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Jerry Jones’ Heartfelt Tribute to Zack Martin

As Martin delivered his farewell speech, Jerry Jones sat in quiet appreciation, visibly moved by the moment. The Cowboys owner, known for his larger-than-life presence, expressed his deep admiration for Martin’s contributions to the team and his unwavering character.

“This room today is gathered for an appreciation of a person who has taken all the things this organization stands for,” Jones said. “All that we’re interested in, why we get up, and why we spend our time focused the way we do. If you sum up all the things this room is interested in, Zack Martin embodies them.”

As Jones spoke, former Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and several of Martin’s former teammates listened attentively, paying tribute to a player who had set the gold standard for excellence on and off the field.

A Legacy That Will Inspire Future Generations

Martin wasn’t just a dominant force on the field—he was a leader, a mentor, and the epitome of what it meant to be a Cowboy. His work ethic, discipline, and dedication to the game shaped the culture of the offensive line and left an indelible mark on young players like Tyler Smith, Tyler Guyton, and Cooper Beebe.

“The player you are, the person you are, the leader you are—your unique interplay with our time together has been exemplary, unsurpassed, yet very competitive and very strong,” Jones praised.

The Next Chapter: Ring of Honor and Hall of Fame

As Martin steps away from the game, his legacy is far from over. The next stop will undoubtedly be the Cowboys’ Ring of Honor, a prestigious accolade that Jones assured will be awarded to Martin. Beyond that, the ultimate recognition awaits—the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where Martin will stand alongside the greatest players in the history of the sport.

For now, though, No. 70 will take on his most important role yet: spending quality time with his family and coaching little league football. While the Cowboys will miss his dominance on the field, his impact on the franchise will be felt for generations to come.