Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is the first player to be named the NFL’s top defensive player, earning $40 million per year under his six-year contract extension.
In a shocking move, veteran guard Zack Martin has announced his retirement from football at the age of 34. A nine-time Pro Bowl selection and seven-time First-Team All-Pro pick, Martin was one of the most decorated players in Cowboys history.
Martin’s decision comes after he reworked his contract with the team last offseason, allowing the Cowboys to gain some salary cap relief if he opted to retire. The move creates a void on and off the field for the Cowboys, as Martin was not only a key player but also an influential leader who served on the players’ council.
Martin’s impressive career statistics include 162 starts, seven first-team All-Pro nods, and only seven accepted holding penalties throughout his career. He will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame after a five-year waiting period.
The Cowboys are now expected to look to the draft or free agency to fill Martin’s spot on the team. Despite his retirement, Martin will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in Cowboys history, and his legacy will continue to be celebrated by fans and teammates alike.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43941412/source-cowboys-all-pro-guard-zack-martin-retire-nfl