Cowboys’ Ezekiel Elliott opens up about Zack Martin’s absence
The Dallas Cowboys are set to begin the 2021 season off with the tough challenge of facing the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Cowboys are heading into the season opener shorthanded with star offensive guard Zack Martin out due to testing positive for COVID-19. All-Pro running back Ezekiel Elliott voiced that the loss is a significant blow for Dallas as he believes the team is without its best offensive player before the pivotal matchup.
“Zack’s our best player on our offense,” Elliott said, via Todd Archer of ESPN. “I mean most runs, they coming back behind him. It’s disappointing but you can’t harp on it, can’t let it be more than what it is. I mean, definitely going to miss him, definitely wish he was out there, but we still have a game to go play and we got to try and get the job done.”
Since entering the NFL, Martin has developed into one of the league’s best offensive linemen. He’s been an anchor on the Cowboys’ offensive line and one of the most durable players.
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However, there is a sliver of hope that he plays in Thursday’s game, depending on his vaccination status. If he were to be vaccinated, there is a chance he could receive medical clearance to play in the season opener.
He will need two negative tests at least 24 hours apart, which puts another huge hurdle to get past. If he’s unable to play, the Cowboys are expected to turn to Connor McGovern to fill the spot against the Buccaneers.
