I'm torn. Zack Martin has had a great career, but he's just not the same player anymore. Brock Hoffman's ceiling will probably never be as high as Martin's once was, but he brings youth and a certain nastiness to the offensive line that I think has been missing. Is there a role for him once Martin returns? Or, dare I say, is it time to make a permanent change? – Sam Nelson/Oklahoma City, OK
Patrik: It's not time to sit down the future first ballot Hall of Famer, in my opinion. Yes, it is true that Martin has not been himself over the course of the 2024 season but a large reason for that downturn is the fact that, for the first time in his illustrious pro career, he's dealt with not just multiple injuries that have hampered his play.
The former ironman is definitely at the event horizon of his career, but if this is to be his swan song, he's earned the right to go out on his shield. And now that he's gotten a bit of rest over the past couple of weeks, his eventual return should present better play from a healthier version of the perennial All-Pro. Hoffman has been exactly what the Cowboys knew he'd be, and has a bright future ahead of him, but the key word there is "future".
Tommy: I don't think it's time to make a permanent change just yet. If Zack Martin is healthy, which he certainly hasn't been at points this season, then he's your best option at right guard. If he's healed significantly over this break heading into Monday Night Football, I think it's a no brainer to start him. In terms of how Brock Hoffman can get involved, how about the idea of using him in some heavy packages?
The Cowboys ran two plays with Matt Waletzko reporting as eligible against the Giants, why not give Hoffman a shot there to get him on the field and give you some added punch? If not, I think his current role of stepping in when needed is a valuable one, especially considering how banged up Dallas has been across the board for the whole year.
