The journey of Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was marked by adaptation, learning, and unwavering effort. Having been a standout at Michigan, Smith faced the considerable challenge of adjusting to the NFL's pace, strategy, and physical demands.
A Season of Struggle and Growth
Smith suited up for all 17 regular-season games, showing his durability and commitment to the team. Throughout the 2023 season, he amassed 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. Despite these solid stats, Smith's rookie season was characterized more by off-field adjustments and growth rather than on-field dominance.
One significant challenge for Smith was his weight. Listed at 337 pounds during his college career at Michigan in 2022, Smith dropped to 323 pounds for the 2023 NFL Combine. This downward trend in weight continued once he joined the Cowboys, eventually dipping below 300 pounds to fit into defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme. As Mike Zimmer, who has since taken over the defensive coordinator position, noted, "Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year."
New Direction Under Zimmer
With Zimmer at the helm of the Cowboys' defense, there is hope for Smith's resurgence. Zimmer plans for Smith to regain some of that lost weight, targeting a playing weight of 310-315 pounds. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," the new defensive coordinator explained.
Smith himself is optimistic about this new direction, believing it will better align with his natural abilities and playing style. "I did everything I was supposed to do and did nothing but train. Everything in my power. Control the controllables," Smith remarked. "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."
The new scheme heralds a back-to-basics approach. "He was trying to be an attacking three-technique to get up the field," said Zimmer. "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."
Smith's Mental Resilience
Despite the struggles, Smith maintains a resilient mindset. His adaptability has always been a strength, and he's ready to prove it in the NFL. "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 stated, showcasing his versatility and willingness to embrace the new role.
Smith's teammate, Micah Parsons, echoed this confidence, emphasizing the necessity of Smith's success. "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," Parsons declared. "We drafted him to be in the game. That's how much confidence I have."
A Fresh Start
As Smith looks forward to the upcoming season, he does so with a renewed sense of purpose and a so-called clean slate. "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 shared, highlighting his commitment to personal excellence over external accolades.
Parsons, one of Smith's staunchest supporters, believes in his teammate's potential for greatness. "That's why I'm in his corner, I'm rooting for him and hoping to get him better every day," Parsons said. "We need Mazi to be that great force. He can be a dominant player. It's just a will and mindset."
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the new season, all eyes will be on Mazi Smith. The combination of Mike Zimmer's seasoned guidance and Smith's determination to adapt and thrive lays the foundation for what could be a breakthrough year. The adjustments in weight, technique, and scheme are all pivotal elements that will determine whether Smith can turn potential into performance and become the force the Cowboys need in their defensive line.