Zack Martin: Dallas Cowboys NFL Star Guard

Zack Martin is a key player for the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line. He joined the team in 2014 and has been a standout ever since. His consistent play and leadership make him a crucial part of America's Team.

Martin's NFL career is truly impressive. He's been a Pro Bowler nine times and an All-Pro seven times. His skills are so high that he made it into the "Madden NFL 24" 99 Club.

Even at 34, Martin shows no signs of slowing down. He recently signed a two-year deal with the Cowboys. This deal not only keeps him with the team but also frees up cap space for the Cowboys.

Key Takeaways

• Zack Martin is a nine-time Pro Bowler and seven-time first-team All-Pro
• He was selected for the "Madden NFL 24" 99 Club
• Martin agreed to a restructured two-year deal with the Cowboys
• He turns 34 in November but continues to perform at an elite level
• Martin's contract restructure helped clear cap space for the Cowboys

Early Life and High School Career

Zack Martin was born on November 20, 1990, in Indianapolis. His childhood in the Hoosier State was key to his football success. It led him from local fields to the national stage.

Growing Up in Indianapolis

Martin loved sports from a young age. At Saint Matthew Catholic School, he showed his athletic talent. His hard work and natural ability set him up for greatness.

Dominating at Bishop Chatard High School

At Bishop Chatard High School in Indianapolis, Martin's football skills grew. He played both offense and defense, impressing everyone. His sophomore year, he made 73 tackles and earned "The Butcher" nickname.

In his senior year, Martin was unstoppable. He made 114 pancake blocks, showing his NFL potential. His efforts helped the team win two state championships.

Under Armour All-America Game Recognition

Martin's high school success caught national attention. He was chosen for the 2009 Under Armour All-America Game. This honor made him a top college recruit.

Year	Achievement	Details
2008	State Championship	First of two consecutive Indiana Class 3A titles
2009	Senior Year Stats	114 pancake blocks
2009	All-America Selection	Chosen for Under Armour All-America Game

Martin's high school career at Bishop Chatard High School was impressive. His success, including the Under Armour All-America Game, drew college scouts. It set him up for his future at Notre Dame.

College Career at Notre Dame

Zack Martin's time at Notre Dame was truly remarkable. He played for the Fighting Irish from 2009 to 2013. He quickly became a key player on the offensive line.

After a year of redshirting, Martin became the starting left tackle in 2010. He was a standout player from then on.

Martin was known for his reliability and leadership. He started all 52 games of his college career. This set a record for Notre Dame's offensive linemen.

He was named team captain twice, showing his leadership skills. This honor was a testament to his influence on and off the field.

"Being a team captain at Notre Dame was one of the greatest honors of my life. It taught me invaluable lessons about leadership and teamwork."

Martin's skills as an offensive tackle were recognized nationwide. He was named All-American twice and won the Lineman of the Year Award. His career ended with a rare achievement - MVP of the 2013 Pinstripe Bowl.

Year	Achievement
2010-2013	52 consecutive starts
2012, 2013	Team Captain
2012, 2013	All-American
2013	Pinstripe Bowl MVP

Martin's success at Notre Dame opened doors for him. His impressive college career caught the attention of NFL scouts. This led to his selection by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2014 draft.

NFL Draft and Rookie Season

Zack Martin's journey to NFL stardom started with the 2014 NFL Draft. The Dallas Cowboys picked him as the 16th overall pick in the first round. They saw his potential to strengthen their offensive line.

First-Round Selection by Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys believed Martin could play multiple roles. At the Senior Bowl, he played guard and impressed scouts. This flexibility was key for Dallas, as they needed help on their offensive line.

Immediate Impact as a Rookie

Martin's rookie season was exceptional. He started all 16 games as the Cowboys' right guard. His skill and consistency improved the offensive line, helping quarterback Tony Romo and the running game.

Pro Bowl and All-Pro Honors

Martin's rookie season earned him Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro honors. This was a big milestone, as he was the first Cowboys rookie in 45 years to achieve this. His selection to the PFWA All-Rookie Team also highlighted his rising star status in the NFL.

Achievement	Year	Significance
Pro Bowl Selection	2014	First of nine consecutive selections
First-team All-Pro	2014	First Cowboys rookie since 1969
PFWA All-Rookie Team	2014	Recognition among top NFL rookies

Martin's standout rookie season paved the way for a great career. He became a key player for the Cowboys' offensive line and one of the top guards in the NFL.

Zack Martin, Dallas Cowboys, nfl

Zack Martin has been a key player for the Dallas Cowboys since 2014. At 33, he has played 10 seasons in the NFL. His hard work has brought him many awards and respect from fans and players alike.

His achievements are impressive. Martin has been to the Pro Bowl nine times and has been an All-Pro nine times. He has been named a first-team All-Pro seven times, a record for guards.

The Cowboys' offensive line has flourished with Martin on board. He has played in 91 games, missing only nine. His reliability has been key to the team's success.

"Pay the man."

Dak Prescott's words show how much Martin is valued. Martin signed a six-year, $84 million deal in 2018. He's set to make $13.5 million in 2023. His performance might lead to another big contract.

Achievement	Number
Pro Bowl Selections	9
First-team All-Pro	7
Second-team All-Pro	2
Seasons Played	10
Games Missed	9

Martin's influence goes beyond the game. He was named a 99 overall player in "Madden 24," a first for a guard since 2003. As the Cowboys gear up for the new season, Martin's role is crucial.

Offensive Line Dominance

Zack Martin is a key player for the Dallas Cowboys' top-notch offensive line. His skills have helped the team reach new heights. They are now a strong force in the NFL.

Key Part of Elite Cowboys O-Line

The Cowboys' offensive line is among the league's best. They even won the Built Ford Tough Offensive Line of the Year Award. With Martin at right guard, the team had the NFL's fifth-best offense and second-best running attack.

Run Blocking and Pass Protection Skills

Martin's run blocking has been crucial for the Cowboys' success on the ground. His work helped Ezekiel Elliott lead the league with 1,631 rushing yards. The team also led in first- and second-down runs that resulted in a first down.

In pass protection, Martin has been outstanding. In the 2023 season, he allowed only four sacks and 22 pressures in 698 pass-blocking snaps. His pressure rate allowed per dropback was 4.1%, showing he keeps quarterbacks safe.

Consistency and Durability

Martin's consistency is clear in his seven first-team All-Pro selections. He's been to the Pro Bowl every year but one since joining the league. His durability is impressive, starting 53 of 61 games at right guard.

Even with a slight drop in 2023, Martin, at 33, is expected to regain his form in 2024. His Hall of Fame-caliber career and proven track record make him a vital part of the Cowboys' offensive line.

Pro Bowl and All-Pro Accolades

Zack Martin's NFL career shows his amazing skills and steady play. His Pro Bowl and All-Pro awards highlight his field impact. He started strong in his rookie year, showing his potential for a long career.

Since 2014, Martin has been a key player at the Pro Bowl. He's been there nine times, missing only in 2020. This makes him one of the top offensive linemen in NFL history.

Martin's All-Pro awards are also impressive. He's been a first-team All-Pro seven times and a second-team All-Pro twice. In 2019, he became one of just five offensive linemen to get Pro Bowl invites in their first six seasons.

Year	Pro Bowl	All-Pro
2014-2019	Yes	1st Team (4x), 2nd Team (2x)
2020	No	No
2021-2023	Yes	1st Team

Martin's stats show his dominance. In 2022, he played 1,143 snaps without a sack. He's started 153 games, showing his durability. These achievements make him one of the NFL's top offensive linemen, always playing at a high level.

Contract and Financial Impact

Zack Martin's deal with the Dallas Cowboys shows he's a top guard in the NFL. In 2018, he signed a six-year, $84 million contract. This deal made him one of the highest-paid guards in the league.

Record-Breaking Guard Contract

Martin's contract guarantees him $36.5 million over two years. This makes his average salary $18 million. He's now among the highest earners at his position.

Here's how Martin's contract stacks up against other top guards:

Player	Contract	Average Annual Value
Chris Lindstrom	5 years, $102.5 million	$20.5 million
Quenton Nelson	4 years, $80 million	$20 million
Zack Martin	6 years, $84 million	$14 million

Value to the Cowboys Organization

Martin's worth to the Cowboys goes beyond his playing skills. He's played in 98.36% of the team's snaps last season. His reliability makes his contract a smart investment.

The Cowboys' front office wanted to keep Martin due to the team's depth issues. They also saw him as a key player. Despite salary cap issues, they're trying to balance his pay with other players' contracts.

Playing Style and Technique

Zack Martin's playing style is a true lesson in offensive line technique. He stands at 6'4" and weighs 308 lbs, blending size with unmatched skill. His 29 reps on the bench press at the NFL Combine showed his incredible power. This power is evident in his game.

In run blocking, Martin is a standout. He creates paths for running backs with ease. His hip movements are quick and agile, thanks to his footwork and hand placement. This allows him to keep blocks strong and push defenders back.

Martin also shines in pass protection. Despite doubts about handling tough defenders, he has proven himself. His balance and technique help him block even the toughest defensive linemen. This protection is key for the quarterback.

Even as Martin continues to excel, the Cowboys are looking to the future. They've drafted Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe, learning from Martin's technique. This move will keep the Cowboys' offensive line strong in the NFL.

FAQ

What position does Zack Martin play in the NFL?

Zack Martin plays as an offensive guard for the Dallas Cowboys. He was drafted as a tackle but has become a top guard in the league.

What high school did Zack Martin attend?

Zack Martin went to Bishop Chatard High School in Indianapolis. He was great in football, basketball, and track. His football team won two state championships.

At what college did Zack Martin play football?

Zack Martin played at the University of Notre Dame from 2009 to 2013. He played tackle for all 52 games and was a team captain twice.

When was Zack Martin drafted into the NFL?

The Dallas Cowboys picked Zack Martin in the first round (16th overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft.

What accolades has Zack Martin received in the NFL?

Zack Martin has made nine Pro Bowls and been named to nine All-Pro teams. He was the first Cowboys rookie lineman to make these teams since 1969.

What is Zack Martin's role on the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line?

Zack Martin is a key player on the Cowboys' offensive line. His run blocking helps the team's rush, and his pass protection is crucial for success.

How has Zack Martin's contract impacted the Cowboys' salary cap?

In 2018, Zack Martin signed a six-year, $84 million deal with $40 million guaranteed. This made him the highest-paid guard in the NFL at the time. It shows his huge value to the Cowboys.

What makes Zack Martin an effective offensive lineman?

Zack Martin's strength, technique, and football smarts make him stand out. He's great at both run blocking and pass protection. His footwork, hand placement, and leverage are key to the Cowboys' success.