The transition from college football standout to NFL professional is challenging for many rookies, and Mazi Smith's first year with the Dallas Cowboys was no exception. The young defensive lineman spent his rookie season navigating new schemes, battling weight issues, and striving to make his mark. Despite the uphill battle, Smith's relentless effort and adaptation promise a significant impact in the seasons to come.
The Rookie Season
Smith, who played all 17 regular-season games, registered a total of 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss throughout the 2023 season. However, the rookie only saw four snaps in the NFC wild card round, a game the Cowboys lost to the Green Bay Packers. Smith's weight fluctuated dramatically; listed at 337 pounds during his college career at Michigan, he weighed in at 323 pounds at the NFL Combine and later dropped below 300 pounds to fit better into the Cowboys' defensive scheme under previous guidance.
A New Defensive Scheme
Under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, the Cowboys are restructuring their defensive approach. Zimmer is allowing Smith to return to a more comfortable playing weight. The goal is for Smith to play between 310 and 315 pounds, striking a balance that utilizes both his athleticism and strength. Zimmer emphasized the importance of Smith focusing on playing blocks more and mastering his hand and footwork technique.
"Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," Zimmer said. "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."
The Path Forward
Smith himself is aware of the challenges and is prepared to meet them head-on. "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 explained. "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's versatility and adaptability are central to his 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 elaborated. He approaches his new opportunity with a clean slate, focusing on being the best version of himself every game. "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."
Support from Teammates
His teammates, particularly Micah Parsons, are rooting for Smith and confident in his 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.
The expression of support from his peers encourages Smith. "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.
Turning Potential into Performance
As the Cowboys prepare for the next season, all eyes will be on Mazi Smith as he endeavors to turn his potential into consistent performance on the field. With the guidance of Mike Zimmer and the support of his teammates, Smith is poised to redefine his role and impact within the team. His journey underscores the complexity of transitioning to the NFL and the unyielding dedication required to succeed at the highest level of professional football.