Sources: Cowboys Talking Zack Martin Contract; Progress Yet?

According to CowboysSI.com sources, Dallas Cowboys and guard Zack Martin have been discussing a new contract … all leading up to the All-Pro threatening to hold out of camp.

The Dallas Cowboys awoke to what seemed like an unpleasant surprise on Wednesday morning, as All-Pro guard Zack Martin threatened to not report to training camp as he seeks a new contract.

Martin has been one of, if not the, best offensive linemen in the NFL over the past decade, with six All-Pro selections in nine seasons. Compared to other star guards, such as Chris Lindstrom (Atlanta Falcons) and Quentin Nelson (Indianapolis Colts) who both make around $20 million a year, Martin is relatively underpaid at just $13.5 million per season. From that perspective, it's easy to see why Martin is seeking a new deal.

One fix, though: Our Mike Fisher of CowboysSI.com reports via sources that the two sides have been negotiating. (ESPN adds a note about "brief discussions" that the talks go all the way back to the NFL Scouting Combine in February.

So that means no “surprises.” But does that mean “optimism”? “Progress”? Our sources do not suggest that. One view: He signed his latest extension in 2018, while every guard with a higher annual value signed theirs in 2021 or later. At the time he signed his deal, Martin was rightfully the highest-paid guard in football.

That, the two sides agree on. But “talking” isn’t “doing,” and given the fact that the sides touched base in February and yet here we sit on the eve of camp with an unhappy Martin.

That is not a “positive.’ So … That said, it can be argued that the Cowboys must do everything in their power to keep Martin happy. He has been their best offensive player for years now, and he alone is a huge reason for Dallas' offensive success. … all of which leaves Cowboys Nation hoping for more real “optimism” - and soon.

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