On February 20, 2025, the football world bid farewell to one of its most decorated linemen as former Notre Dame star Zack Martin announced his retirement from the NFL after an illustrious career with the Dallas Cowboys. Martin, a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive line since being drafted in the first round in 2014, leaves behind a legacy that has sparked immediate Hall of Fame chatter—and rightfully so. For Notre Dame fans, his departure marks the end of an era for one of the program’s most successful alumni.
Martin’s journey began in South Bend, where he anchored the Fighting Irish offensive line from 2009 to 2013, earning All-American honors and showcasing the tenacity that would define his professional career. At Notre Dame, he protected quarterbacks and paved the way for running backs, laying the groundwork for a seamless transition to the NFL. His 52 consecutive starts as a collegian hinted at the durability and consistency that became his trademarks in Dallas.
Over 11 seasons with the Cowboys, Martin redefined excellence at guard, earning nine First-Team All-Pro selections—a feat matched by few in league history. His technical prowess, strength, and football IQ made him a perennial Pro Bowler and a key reason Dallas remained a contender year after year. Even in his final season, hampered by injuries, Martin’s impact was undeniable, leaving teammates and coaches praising his leadership and grit.
For Notre Dame, Martin’s retirement is bittersweet. He embodied the program’s tradition of producing NFL-ready talent, joining the likes of Joe Montana and Jerome Bettis as legends who carried the Irish banner to professional glory. As tributes pour in, the conversation shifts to Canton, where Martin’s bust seems destined to reside. The Fighting Irish faithful will miss seeing No. 70 dominate Sundays, but his legacy in South Bend and beyond endures as a testament to excellence. Farewell, Zack—well played.
