Zack Martin spent nine seasons alongside Dak Prescott as the Dallas Cowboys quarterback’s starting guard, from 2016 through 2024. A nine-time Pro Bowler and nine-time All-Pro selection, Martin retired after the 2024 season but continues to follow his former team closely.
As Dallas entered its Week 10 matchup with the San Francisco 49ers, the Cowboys were 4-5 and navigating an uneven season. Prescott had just thrown for 335 yards and two touchdowns in a close win over the Indianapolis Colts, earning a 114.2 passer rating. The performance followed a difficult loss to the Arizona Cardinals, in which Dallas surrendered a 14-point lead in the fourth quarter.
Martin praised Prescott’s leadership and described him as an exceptional teammate. “He’s the leader,” Martin said. “He’s as good a teammate as I’ve ever been around.”
## Prescott’s Career and the Scrutiny He Faces
Prescott is a multi-time Pro Bowl quarterback and former All-Pro who has led the NFL in passing touchdowns. He is also the league’s second-highest-paid player by average annual salary, at $60 million per season.
Despite his accomplishments, Prescott has faced criticism over his postseason record. He is 2-5 in playoff games and has not led Dallas past the divisional round. The Cowboys’ long wait for another Super Bowl title—its most recent came after the 1995 season—also adds pressure on the quarterback, who is the face of the franchise.
Prescott has recorded the fifth-most quarterback wins since the 2016 season, behind Patrick Mahomes, Jared Goff, Aaron Rodgers and Josh Allen.
Martin also pointed to the adversity Prescott has faced and the responsibility that comes with playing quarterback for Dallas. “I’ve never met a guy that has gone through more adversity in his life, and to have the ability to step up and be accountable and be the guy at such a pressured position at an organization like Dallas,” Martin said. “I don’t think there’s too many people that could handle all that.”
## Martin Sees Playoff Potential for Dallas
A deep playoff run could help Prescott answer his critics. Dallas remained in contention for the NFC East, with the New York Giants at 5-3-1, and Martin believed the Cowboys could make noise if they reached the postseason—even with inconsistent defensive play.
“The playoffs are all about who’s healthy and who’s playing the best at that moment,” Martin said. He added that teams can build momentum by hitting their stride at the right time: “So, if you’re hitting it at the right time, you can definitely make some noise.”
