In a season that demanded resilience and adaptation, Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys exemplified the fortitude required to transition from college football stardom to the rigors of the NFL. Playing all 17 regular-season games, Smith demonstrated his durability and commitment, a solid foundation on which he and the team can build.
Rookie Stats and Game Impact
Smith's rookie stats reflect an athlete finding his footing in the professional arena. He logged 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss throughout the 2023 season. However, Smith's contribution to the Cowboys went beyond these numbers. His impact on the defensive front was significant, even if it wasn't always captured on the stat sheet.
However, the high demands of the NFL playoffs proved challenging. During the NFC wild card round, Smith was on the field for only four snaps in the Cowboys' loss to the Green Bay Packers—a stark contrast to his regular-season involvement. This limited play time showcases the steep learning curve and the adjustments still necessary for Smith in high-stakes environments.
Weight Adjustments and Scheme Fit
One of the significant changes Smith faced was his weight management. From being listed at 337 pounds during his college career at Michigan in 2022, Smith dropped to 323 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine. The weight loss continued as Smith adapted to defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme, eventually dipping below 300 pounds to fit the specific role envisioned for him.
However, the Cowboys' defensive strategy is set to undergo a transformation with Mike Zimmer stepping in as the new defensive coordinator. Zimmer aims to alter Smith’s role, allowing him to return to a more substantial playing weight of 310-315 pounds. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," a sentiment echoed as Zimmer plans for Smith to utilize his hands and footwork correctly. This change provides Smith an opportunity to play in alignment with his natural strengths, blending his athleticism with a formidable physical presence.
Zimmer's Vision and Smith’s Ambitions
Zimmer's strategy is clear: refine Smith's basics and build from there. "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 said. Emphasizing a return to fundamental techniques, Zimmer’s approach is poised to unlock Smith’s potential.
Smith is equally committed to this revamped role. "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 said, highlighting his readiness to adjust and excel.
Support and Expectations from Teammates
The changes in staff and strategy are not the only sources of support Smith has. Teammates like Micah Parsons have expressed strong confidence in his abilities. "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 asserted, recognizing the high stakes and high hopes pinned on Smith.
Parsons' advocacy is clear: "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." The internal drive and external support seem well-aligned, building a nurturing environment for Smith's growth.
Looking to the Future
Reflecting on his journey and goals, Smith remains focused. "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," he shared, emphasizing his versatility and preparedness.
Although he remains open-minded about outcomes, Smith's aspirations remain high. "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," he stated, underscoring a personal commitment to excellence regardless of external expectations.
As the Cowboys gear up for the next season, Mazi Smith’s journey epitomizes the spirit of adaptation and perseverance, with a renewed focus on fundamentals and a supporting cast that believes in his potential. The upcoming seasons will undoubtedly reveal how these adjustments translate into performance on the field.