In a transformative rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys, Mazi Smith showcased immense dedication and adaptability. Transitioning from his college career at Michigan, where he weighed in at 337 pounds in 2022, Smith faced significant adjustments in the NFL. At the 2023 NFL Combine, his weight had already dipped to 323 pounds, a foreshadowing of the physical changes to come.
Smith's first season tested his resilience. He played all 17 regular-season games, recording 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, his snap count dwindled in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, with Smith logging only four snaps.
Weight Changes and Scheme Adjustments
One notable challenge for Smith was the significant weight loss he underwent to fit into Dan Quinn's defensive scheme. Ultimately, his weight dipped below 300 pounds, a shift that Mike Zimmer, the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, recognized as a struggle for the young player. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," Zimmer remarked, highlighting the difficulties Smith faced.
Under Zimmer's direction, there will be changes tailored to bolster Smith's performance. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, envisioning him between 310-315 pounds. Smith himself acknowledges the need for this adjustment. "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 commented.
Zimmer's strategy is clear: enhance Smith's foundational skills. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," he explained. By returning to basics and emphasizing proper technique, Zimmer aims to maximize Smith's potential. "He was trying to be an attacking three-technique to get up the field... 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 Road Ahead
For Smith, the journey is one of relentless improvement and adaptability. "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, emphasizing his versatility and readiness to meet the demands of various defensive strategies.
Smith's ethos is one of constant growth without being confined by rigid goals. "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," he reflected. His focus remains unwavering on contributing effectively to the Cowboys and demonstrating his intrinsic worth as a high draft pick.
Support from Teammates and Coaches
Smith's efforts haven't gone unnoticed. Teammate Micah Parsons, speaking about Smith's potential, expressed his confidence in the young player. "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 emphasized. This statement underlines the high expectations accompanying Smith’s role in the team.
Parsons remains Smith's fervent supporter, rooting for his progression and 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," Parsons shared, underscoring the collective belief in Smith’s ability to become a dominant defensive force.
As Smith continues to evolve under the guidance of Mike Zimmer and with the encouragement of his teammates, the foundation is being laid for a promising future. The commitment to refining his technique, coupled with the strategic adjustment of his playing weight, is expected to unlock new levels of performance. For Smith, the focus remains on controlling what he can and striving to be at his best with every snap.