Dallas Cowboys' Zack Martin Holdout: Updates, Contract Negotiations, and Preseason Outlook

2023-08-09 20:08:16

Sports Writing, Aug 9 (EFE).- The Dallas Cowboys will debut in week one of the NFL preseason next Saturday against the Jaguars without reaching an agreement with their ‘guard’ Zack Martin, considered one of the best in his league position.

Martin, a fundamental piece in the protection of quarterback Dak Prescott, has not shown up for the Cowboys’ summer training camp that started on July 25. He racks up more than $500,000 in fines for his absence.

The 32-year-old has two years left on his contract, but since March he has expressed his desire for a raise to the $14 million he will earn in each of the next two seasons.

The ‘guard’ born in Indianapolis, Indiana, eighth highest paid in his position, wants to get closer to those who earn the most. Chris Lindstrom, of the Falcons, who receives 20.5 million dollars per year, and Quenton Nelson, of the Colts, with 20 annual.

“We could say we’ll move on without him, but we also thought, ‘That sounds concerning.’ I’m just trying to take it both ways,” Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said.

Although a point of agreement is not in sight, Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy is confident that he will be able to count on Martin for the start of the regular season on September 10.

“It’s a business, businesses have different timelines. I know Zack and I don’t doubt it; he’ll be ready to come when the time comes,” McCarthy stressed.

Week one of the preseason will start this Thursday with two games; Texans-Patriots and Vikings-Seahawks.

Friday highlights the duel Green Bay Packers-Cincinnati Bengals.

For the first time in 18 years, the Packers will be without quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who signed with the Jets. Jordan Love, 24-year-old passer, will have the opportunity to play his first season as a starter in Green Bay.

On Saturday, the clash between the Jaguars and Cowboys draws attention.

On Sunday, the champions will close the activity, the Kansas City Chiefs, who will travel to the New Orleans Saints stadium, and the Las Vegas Raiders, who will host the San Francisco 49ers.

Week one of the NFL preseason:

Jueves 10.08: Texans-Patriots y Vikings-Seahawks.

Viernes 11.08: Packers-Bengals, Giants-Lions, Falcons-Dolphins, Steelers-Buccaneers, Commanders-Browns y Broncos-Cardinals.

Sábado 12.08: Colts-Bills, Titans-Bears, Jets-Panthers, Jaguars-Cowboys, Eagles-Ravens y Chargers-Rams.

Domingo 13.08: Chiefs-Saints y 49ers-Raiders.