The 2023 season marked a significant year of adaptation for Mazi Smith as he transitioned from college football at Michigan to the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys. Smith's rookie season was one characterized by relentless effort and significant changes, both in his playing responsibilities and his physical conditioning.
Adjustments and Challenges
Playing in all 17 regular-season games, Smith accumulated 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, his participation in the Cowboys' NFC wild card playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers was limited to just four snaps, highlighting the challenges he faced in solidifying his role within the team.
A significant part of Smith's adaptation was his weight management. At Michigan, Smith was listed at 337 pounds in 2022. At the 2023 NFL Combine, he trimmed down to 323 pounds, only to see his weight dip below 300 pounds once he joined the Cowboys. This reduction was part of his efforts to fit into then-defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme, which demanded a lighter, more agile defensive lineman.
A New Defensive Direction
With the arrival of Mike Zimmer as the new defensive coordinator, Smith is again in the process of adjusting his game. Zimmer plans to allow him to return to a more substantial playing weight, aiming for 310-315 pounds, which he believes will better utilize Smith's natural strengths. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," commented the seasoned coach.
Zimmer emphasizes fundamentals in his approach to Smith's development. "Zimmer’s plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," he explained. This shift in focus is intended to unlock Smith's potential as a dominant force on the defensive line. Zimmer added, "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."
Mazi Smith's Perspective and Resolve
Smith himself is resolute in his approach to his evolving role within the team. Reflecting on his rookie year, he shared, "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's adaptability has been a cornerstone of his career, both in college and now in the NFL. He explained, "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." This versatility is something Zimmer aims to harness, ensuring Smith's skills are effectively utilized to benefit the Cowboys' defense.
Team Confidence and Support
Veteran linebacker Micah Parsons also voiced his belief 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, a cornerstone of the Cowboys' defense, is keen to see Smith thrive and make a significant impact.
While Smith is conscious of the expectations placed upon him, he remains focused on personal growth and contributing to the 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," Smith stated, highlighting his commitment to continuous improvement.
Parsons further emphasized the importance of Smith's development for the team's success. "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." With support from his teammates and strategic guidance from his coaches, Smith is poised to capitalize on his talents in the upcoming season.
As Smith prepares for his sophomore NFL season, the adjustments and efforts from his rookie year lay a foundation for growth. The stage is set for Mazi Smith to evolve into the dominant defensive player the Dallas Cowboys believe he can be.