Mazi Smith's Rookie Year: A Journey of Adaptation and Anticipation
Mazi Smith's rookie season with the Dallas Cowboys was one of significant adaptation and relentless effort. Playing all 17 regular-season games, Smith's year on the field saw him recording 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. Despite his consistent presence in the regular season, Smith logged only four snaps in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Smith, who was listed at 337 pounds during his college career at Michigan in 2022, faced a substantial change in weight as he transitioned into the NFL. By the 2023 NFL Combine, Smith had slimmed down to 323 pounds, demonstrating his commitment to fitting into the Cowboys' defensive scheme. However, in a bid to further align with the strategy, Smith's weight eventually dipped below 300 pounds.
With Mike Zimmer stepping in as the new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, a significant shift in plans for Smith is now on the horizon. Zimmer intends to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, targeting somewhere between 310 and 315 pounds. The adjustment is part of Zimmer's broader strategy to enhance Smith's effectiveness on the field. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," said the new defensive coordinator. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly."
Smith himself is eager to see the impact of this change. "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," Smith remarked. "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."
The adjustment in weight and playing style is not just about numbers on a scale but about redefining Smith's role and approach on the field. Zimmer emphasized starting with the basics to build a strong foundation. "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," Zimmer noted.
Smith's potential has caught the attention of his teammates, including star linebacker Micah Parsons. "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, showcasing his belief in Smith’s ability to rise to the occasion.
Smith himself is looking forward to a fresh start with renewed vigor and clarity. "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," said Smith, reflecting on his versatility and resilience. The journey ahead is about writing a new chapter. "I kind of go over there with a clean slate. I want to write my story. I don't really set goals. Everybody wants to be an All-Pro. Everybody wants to be top five. I want to be the best me I can be," Smith remarked, underscoring his focus on personal growth and excellence.
Parsons, fully in support of Smith, expressed his optimism and encouragement. "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," he said, emphasizing the collective effort and belief in Smith’s potential to become a key player for the Cowboys.
As the Cowboys look towards the future, the journey of Mazi Smith serves as a testament to adaptation, commitment, and the enduring pursuit of excellence. With a supportive team and a clear plan under the guidance of Mike Zimmer, Smith is poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season.