Zack Martin Does the Dallas Cowboys a Final Favor: Retirement Could Save the Team a Lot of Money

A Surprising but Beneficial Decision

The Dallas Cowboys find themselves in the middle of another challenging financial balancing act. With a tight salary cap and multiple roster spots to fill, the team desperately needs financial relief. Enter Zack Martin and his unexpected retirement, which, while bittersweet, could provide the Cowboys with some much-needed cap space.

While Martin has yet to make his retirement official, reports indicate that the 11-year veteran has informed the organization of his plans to step away from the game. As one of the best offensive linemen in franchise history, Martin’s departure will leave a significant hole on the field. However, his decision could simultaneously ease some of the team’s financial constraints.

A Legendary Career in Dallas

Selected 16th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft, Zack Martin quickly became one of the premier offensive guards in the league. Over his illustrious career, he earned seven First-Team All-Pro selections, nine Pro Bowl appearances, and a spot on the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team. Martin was a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive line, consistently paving the way for elite rushing attacks and protecting franchise quarterbacks.

Despite his continued excellence, every player eventually faces the reality of retirement. For Martin, stepping away now not only allows him to preserve his health but also benefits the Cowboys in a major way from a salary cap perspective.

How Martin’s Retirement Helps Dallas Financially

Following a brief contract dispute in 2023, Martin signed a two-year, $36.9 million deal with the Cowboys. However, in the 2024 offseason, both parties agreed to a restructuring that added three void years to the contract. This maneuver allowed the team to distribute Martin’s cap hit more evenly, ensuring they could manage their finances more effectively.

If Martin retires, the Cowboys will be responsible for paying out his remaining guaranteed money. However, due to the restructuring, they can spread these payments over multiple years, rather than absorbing a massive $26 million hit in a single season. By making his retirement official after June 1, the team can divide the financial burden, paying $10.6 million in 2025 and $15.8 million in 2026.

This cap flexibility could be invaluable as the Cowboys look to retain key players and make necessary additions in free agency.

The Cowboys’ Free Agency Outlook

With free agency fast approaching, the Cowboys must make strategic decisions to maintain a competitive roster. A staggering 25 players are set to hit the open market, including starting running back Rico Dowdle and defensive linemen DeMarcus Lawrence and Osa Odighizuwa. Additionally, the team must consider their quarterback depth, with two of Dak Prescott’s backups also entering free agency.

By gaining additional cap space from Martin’s retirement, Dallas will have more room to maneuver in free agency. Whether they focus on retaining core contributors or seeking outside talent, the financial relief provided by Martin’s departure will play a crucial role in shaping the 2024 roster.

Planning for the Future

While Zack Martin’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Cowboys’ offensive line, it also presents an opportunity for the team to reset and prepare for the future. The organization must now focus on developing young talent, potentially targeting offensive linemen in the upcoming NFL Draft to fill the void left by Martin’s departure.

The Cowboys have been fortunate to rely on Martin’s consistency and leadership for over a decade. Now, as they transition into a new chapter, they must make the most of the financial flexibility his retirement affords them.

Though losing a player of Martin’s caliber is never easy, his final act of service to the franchise might be one of the most impactful—giving the Cowboys the financial breathing room they desperately need to build a competitive team for years to come.