Mazi Smith's first year with the Dallas Cowboys was nothing short of a learning experience, marked by intense diligence and significant adaptation. Drafted with high expectations, Smith played all 17 regular-season games and logged notable stats, amassing 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, Smith's impact wasn't fully felt in the postseason, as he recorded just four snaps in the NFC wild card playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers.
An Ongoing Transformation
Smith's physical transformation has been a major storyline throughout his rookie year. Listed at 337 pounds during his college tenure at Michigan in 2022, he shed considerable weight and clocked in at 323 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine. The weight loss journey continued as he dipped below 300 pounds to fit within former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme. Yet, this drastic change seemed to contribute to his struggles on the field.
“Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year,” said new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Recognizing these challenges, Zimmer plans to recalibrate Smith’s playing weight, allowing him to return to a more substantial size.
A New Scheme, A Fresh Start
Under Zimmer's tutelage, Smith aims to play at around 310-315 pounds, a weight that he believes will better suit his capabilities and the demands of the new defensive scheme. Emphasizing fundamentals, Zimmer commented, “Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly.” This back-to-basics approach is centered around improving Smith's positional play and maximizing his natural abilities.
The Road Ahead
Smith himself expressed optimism and determination regarding the changes. “I did everything I was supposed to do and did nothing but train. Everything in my power. Control the controllables. In this scheme, I don't want to be 290. Probably want to be like 310-315. See what that's doing for you. If you have to go up [more in weight], go up,” he stated, illustrating his commitment to adapting and excelling within the new framework.
Micah Parsons, one of the stalwarts of the Cowboys’ defense, has also placed a vote of confidence in Smith. "It's not what I think he can be, it's what Mazi has to be. When you get to this business, there is no more of a choice or a can: it's either you will or you won't,” Parsons opined. “We drafted him to be in the game. That's how much confidence I have." Parsons' endorsement underscores the collective belief within the organization that Smith has the potential to be a dominant force on the field.
A Dual-Threat Defender
Smith’s versatility is another asset that could prove beneficial under Zimmer’s strategy. “My whole career I've been a guy who could play in multiple schemes. I got the athletic traits to be an up-field guy, but I have the strength to play at the line of scrimmage and build a wall,” Smith explained. His ability to adapt to different defensive roles is a testament to his athleticism and tactical flexibility.
Embracing New Opportunities
With a new season on the horizon, Smith seems poised to make the most of his opportunities. “I kind of go over there with a clean slate. I want to write my story. I don't really set goals. Everybody want to be an All-Pro. Everybody want to be top five. I want to be the best me I can be,” Smith shared, indicating his internal motivation and drive to define his own path in the NFL.
The support from teammates like Parsons further fuels Smith’s ambitions. “That's why I'm in his corner, I'm rooting for him and hoping to get him better every day... We need Mazi to be that great force. He can be a dominant player. It's just a will and mindset,” Parsons added.
In summary, Mazi Smith’s rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was a blend of challenges and learning curves. However, with Mike Zimmer’s strategic adjustments and the unwavering belief from his teammates, Smith is well-positioned to evolve into the impactful player the Cowboys envisioned when they drafted him.