Cowboys fans were quick to fear that Zack Martin, the Dallas Cowboys’ guard, would not be available for Thursday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after Martin was found to have COVID-19. Fans may be able to see a glimpse of hope after Monday’s update.
Mike McCarthy, Cowboys’ head coach, announced Monday that Martin is not out of Thursday’s match. He did however make it clear that Martin is not officially ruled out of Thursday’s game.
Martin must pass two COVID-19 negative tests in order to be eligible for the team. These tests must be completed within 24 hours.
Zack Martin is unlikely to play. There is hope.
DallasCowboys.com’s David Helman noted that no other Cowboys player has entered COVID-19 protocols.
Zack Martin would need 2 negative tests between now & when it’s time to head to Tampa, so Mike McCarthy says he’s as close to being ruled out as he could possibly be. Although he is not technically, officially ruled out.
On the bright side, no one new has entered COVID protocol
— David Helman (@HelmanDC) September 6, 2021
Zack Martin has been a six-time Pro Bowler, and an All-Pro selection. He ranks among the top guards in the last decade when he is at his best.
Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott recently admitted that Martin is the team’s best offensive player. It is worth noting that Elliott was unable to be productive last year due to injuries which limited Martin’s participation to just 10 games.
Over the past five years, the Cowboys’ strength has been their offensive team. The offense quickly becomes weak when the offensive line isn’t performing well. It’s one of the best in the NFL when it’s healthy.
It is crucial that the Cowboys’ line is healthy and plays well if they are to beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Thursday.