Since entering the NFL back in 2014, offensive lineman Zack Martin has been a steady source of reliability for the Dallas Cowboys.

Martin is set to enter the fourth year of his rookie deal that will be worth just $1.8 million for the 2017 season, which also includes a $9.3 million option that the Cowboys picked up over the offseason. However, the two sides have decided to hold off on contract talks until after the 2017 NFL season.

The Cowboys have a strong desire to work out a long-term deal with Martin but have been unable to get far in contract discussions over this offseason. There had initially been much hope for a deal to be worked out at some point during training camp.

The 26-year-old has blown past the expectations that come with being a first-round pick as he has earned three Pro Bowl selections, two First-Team All-Pro nods, and a Second-Team All-Pro selection in his first three years. Martin has also received the recognition as being arguably the best offensive guard in the league.

There is a high importance for the Cowboys for keeping their offensive line together under long-term deals as tackle left tackle Tyron Smith and center Travis Frederick are signed through 2023 while right tackle La'el Collins is under contract through 2019.