A Year of Growth: Mazi Smith's Rookie Season with the Dallas Cowboys
Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was marked by a period of adaptation and relentless effort. The former Michigan standout showcased his potential across 17 regular-season games in the 2023 season, recording 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, the journey was far from smooth for the young defensive tackle.
Upon joining the Cowboys, Smith underwent a significant transformation, dropping his weight from the 337 pounds he carried during his college career to 323 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine. To better fit into defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme, Smith's weight later dipped below 300 pounds. This drastic change, however, came with its set of challenges.
"Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," stated the newly appointed defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Smith's limited impact was evident during the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, where he logged just four snaps. Despite these hurdles, Zimmer has a clear plan for Smith's development.
"Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," Zimmer emphasized. The focus on fundamentals aims to transform Smith into a formidable force on the defensive line. "He was trying to be an attacking three-technique to get up the field. ... 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."
Smith, committed to making the necessary adjustments, sees this as an opportunity to redefine his trajectory. "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," Smith explained.
Smith's potential and versatility are not lost on his teammates either. Star linebacker Micah Parsons, known for his dominance on the field, expressed his high expectations and unwavering support. "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," Parsons stated. He added, "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."
Smith also acknowledges the critical eye and encouragement from his teammates as part of his motivation. "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 shared. This adaptability and work ethic are what he hopes will set him apart in the NFL.
Entering his second season with a renewed focus and a refined physique, Smith is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. "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 said, reflecting his resolute mindset.
As Mike Zimmer takes the helm of the Cowboys’ defense, his tailored approach to nurturing Smith's talent holds promise for both the player and the team. Allowing Smith to return to a playing weight of 310-315 pounds, Zimmer envisions a more substantial role for the young defensive tackle, fitting him perfectly into the revamped scheme.
The upcoming season will indeed be a testament to Smith's ability to adapt, grow, and ultimately dominate on the field. With the support of his coaching staff and teammates, and a clear plan for development, Mazi Smith stands ready to make his mark in the NFL.