In a dynamic shift from the college gridiron to the professional stage, Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys can be summed up as a season of adaptation and relentless effort. Highlighted by the visible support and expectations of his teammates and new coaching staff, Smith's journey reflects the intricate balance of refining technique and finding one's fit within the rigors of the NFL.
Draft Night Drama
The buzz surrounding Smith's entry into the NFL began on the opening night of the 2023 NFL Draft when Micah Parsons, a prominent name in the Cowboys' defense, reached out with a text to Dan Quinn, the then-defensive coordinator. Parsons was adamant about drafting the Michigan defensive tackle. When Dallas officially announced Smith as their pick, the enthusiasm was palpable. Parsons' reaction—jumping from his seat and celebrating—mirrored the optimism and expectations pinned on the young player.
Rookie Season: A Mix of Promise and Challenges
Despite playing all 17 regular-season games, Smith's stat line for the 2023 season was a mix of modest accomplishments and areas needing improvement. He recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, his limited playtime in the season-ending NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, where he only logged four snaps, highlighted the adjustments needed for Smith to become a more pivotal force on the field.
Weight and Scheme Adjustments
Smith's physical transformation was significant as he transitioned from his college career at Michigan, where he was listed at 337 pounds in 2022, to the 2023 NFL Combine, weighing in at 323 pounds. In striving to fit into Quinn's defensive scheme, which emphasized agility and getting up the field, Smith's weight dipped below 300 pounds. However, with the arrival of new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, the strategy has shifted.
Zimmer plans to utilize Smith differently, allowing him to return to a more substantial playing weight to effectively plug gaps and command the line of scrimmage. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," highlighting the need for a revised approach. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," Zimmerman added, underscoring the fundamental shifts intended for Smith's role in the defense.
Smith's Determination and Vision
Throughout this period of transformation, Smith's words reflect his determination and professional maturity. On his weight and preparation, Smith stated, "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." This consciousness about his optimal playing weight under the new scheme shows his commitment to becoming a cornerstone of the Cowboys' defensive line.
Zimmer acknowledged the challenges and potential, noting, "He was trying to be an attacking three-technique to get up the field. ... Obviously, he was a high draft pick. I heard that he kind of struggled last year, so we're gonna start with the basics. Get him in a good stance, get him using his hands the right way, getting his footwork the right way and then go from there."
Support and High Hopes
Parsons remains one of Smith's biggest supporters. Highlighting his belief in Smith's potential, Parsons emphasized, "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... We drafted him to be in the game. That's how much confidence I have."
Smith himself is clearly focused on the future and his professional growth. "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," he noted, aligning with Zimmer's new tactical approach. Smith's mindset is not just centered on individual accolades but on becoming a key player for his team. "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," he asserted.
Parsons echoed this sentiment, reinforcing his support by sharing, "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."
As the 2024 season approaches, the anticipation builds. With the strategic changes and intense support from his coaches and teammates, Mazi Smith stands at the threshold of proving his mettle, poised to transform promise into performance on the grand stage of the NFL.