FRISCO, Texas – Mike McCarthy announced on Thursday that Cowboys All-Pro right guard Zack Martin would undergo season-ending surgery to repair his right ankle, the second such procedure that's taken place over the course of his illustrious 11-year career.
So now the question lies: Where do the Cowboys go from here?
The good news is the Cowboys don't have to scramble for an answer. They've got it with Brock Hoffman, who has started the last two games in Martin's place and will take his place going forward. Obviously, the news was hard to hear.
"It's obviously very tough for him," Hoffman said of his teammate. "A guy who is a legend in this game and who is if not the best one of the best o-lineman to ever play this game, it sucks his season has to end that way."
Martin hasn't just been a good teammate for Hoffman and Dallas' offensive linemen, he's been a great mentor too.
"He's helped me a lot," Hoffman said. "I feel like he's really helped the whole team, but specifically the o-line room making sure we always play to that standard no matter who is in… he's really set the standard here for the ĂŰĚŇTV."
The circumstances that occurred to get Hoffman a start spot for the rest of the way are certainly unfortunate, but he takes pride in knowing the shoes that he has to fill for the rest of the 2024 season.
"I'm just going to do everything I can to honor that position," Hoffman said. "Because being the right guard for the ĂŰĚŇTV, [Martin]'s been the anchor of the o-line for over a decade now, so it's just honoring that position, honoring that standard that he's set."
Hoffman has started four total games in his career and has garnered a reputation for his physicality and trash talk. In 205 pass blocking snaps over the last two years, Hoffman has allowed no sacks and just 13 pressures. Additionally, the Cowboys have run the ball for 213 yards in the last two weeks, the second highest in a two week stretch this season. Now, he can keep those trends alive with consistent starting opportunities.
"I felt like I had a big jump in confidence going from that Washington start to the Giants start…" Hoffman said. "Having that consistent work at one position will really help me in my development and obviously Zack will be a big part of that too."
For some, the thought of filling in for a future Hall of Famer is daunting. Hoffman on the other hand relishes the opportunity that's in front of him.
"I've been ready my whole life." Hoffman said.
