Mazi Smith's Growth and Transformation in Dallas
The rookie season of Mazi Smith with the Dallas Cowboys has been a narrative of adaptation, perseverance, and an unyielding effort to carve out his place in the NFL. Smith, who played all 17 regular-season games in his debut year, recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. Despite these contributions, his journey was anything but straightforward.
Smith's season with the Cowboys also included a brief appearance in the postseason, where he logged only four snaps in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers. It was evident that the Michigan product was navigating the challenges of his transition to the professional stage and the adjustments required under the Cowboys' defensive strategies.
Entering the 2023 NFL Combine, Smith weighed in at 323 pounds, a reduction from the 337 pounds he carried during his college career at Michigan. However, in an effort to fit into former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s scheme, his weight further dipped below 300 pounds. This significant weight loss was noted by newly appointed defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who commented, "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year." The shift was tough for Smith, but it also underscored his dedication to adapting to team needs.
With Zimmer now at the helm of the Cowboys' defense, there's a renewed focus on harnessing Smith's potential. Zimmer aims to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, setting his target between 310 and 315 pounds. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly,” he added, signaling a return to basics and fundamental defensive techniques. Smith himself feels more assured in Zimmer’s approach, expressing, "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."
Zimmer has high aspirations for Smith yet advocates a back-to-basics strategy to unlock his full potential. "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 elaborated. This approach aims not only to correct Smith's posture and technique but also to build a more resilient and adaptable defensive lineman.
Smith is well aware of the expectations placed upon him and is preparing to meet them head-on. "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 reflected. His versatility is seen as a valuable asset for the Cowboys, one that, with proper support and training, could be molded into a formidable force on the defensive line.
Teammate Micah Parsons also voiced his confidence in Smith’s potential. "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 emphatically. Parsons' endorsement is more than just encouragement; it is a call to action for Smith to step into the role envisioned for him since draft day.
Parsons further elaborated on his belief in Smith, saying, "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." This support underscores the collaborative effort within the Cowboy's camp to ensure Smith's growth and success.
In reflecting on his personal goals and the path ahead, Smith maintains a focused and determined outlook. "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. His perspective shows a mature understanding of the journey ahead, emphasizing self-improvement and resilience as he prepares for the upcoming season.
As Mazi Smith transitions into the new season under the new defensive regime, all eyes will be on how this promising lineman evolves. With the backing of his coaches and teammates, and a clear vision for his development, Smith’s story with the Dallas Cowboys is one of potential and resolution—qualities that could very well see him flourish into the impactful player he aspires to be.