5 Cowboys Who Won't Return in 2025 With Season Officially Over

3. Zack Martin, offensive guard

This is a sad one to even discuss, because Martin might not be going out on his own terms. The Cowboys were forced to shut him down in December after surgery and now face an offseason of uncertainty with his status.

According to Patrik Walker of the Cowboys' official website:

"Martin was shut down in December due to injury that required surgery to repair and there is no promise he'll stave off retirement for another year

The perennial All-Pro has said he'll take some time to heal and then have the conversation with the team and his family"

This is obviously a situation where the Cowboys will keep the ball in Martin's court while also planning for every contingency, including the idea that Martin will never play for them again. And at this stage, doesn't that feel like the most likely outcome?

Martin is going to turn 35 this coming November and even if he does play again, it might only be for another season.

Even if the Cowboys bring Martin back, it might not be until later in the offseason, so you can almost guarantee that he will be off the roster for the time being. As Martin gets ready to hit unrestricted free agency, the Cowboys may be looking at another big investment in the offensive line during the 2025 NFL Draft.