6 Cowboys Who Won't Be Back in 2025

2. Zack Martin

Everything we said about DeMarcus Lawrence applies to Zack Martin. The star offensive lineman is approaching the end of his six-year, $84 million contract extension that made him the highest paid guard in the NFL when it was signed.

Throughout his career, Martin lived up to that contract and beyond. In all of his healthy seasons, he was a Pro Bowl selection. There is a very valid argument that Martin has been the best guard in football throughout his illustrious career.

Unfortunately, he has been showing signs of age-related decline this year. The 33-year-old has a career-low PFF grade of 64.6, impacting the team's running ability that has ailed them all year.

He has also been battling back and shoulder injuries. Martin is obviously a valuable offensive lineman that will draw interest from teams like the Chicago Bears or the Los Angeles Chargers. As much as the Cowboys would want to keep one of their longest-tenured starters, they may be priced out of him.

Similarly to what the Cowboys did last offseason, letting Tyron Smith walk and drafting his replacement Tyler Guyton in the first round, they could do the same with Martin. Instead of giving the aging version of him a multi-year deal, finding the next Zack Martin through the draft might be a better idea.