Mazi Smith’s Evolution: A Rookie Season of Adaptation and Ambition
Mazi Smith's transition from college football at Michigan to his rookie year in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys has been a journey marked by adaptation, determination, and strategic changes.
An Intense Rookie Season
Joining the Cowboys, Smith played all 17 regular-season games in the 2023 season. His performance, while solid, showcased areas for growth. Smith recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. Despite these promising numbers, he saw limited action in the critical moments, logging only four snaps in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Weight and Scheme Adjustments
Smith's transition was not just about imposing his physical presence; it was also about fitting into defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme, which demanded a different physical profile. Smith, who was listed at 337 pounds during his college career in 2022, weighed in at 323 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine. As he adjusted to the Cowboys' defense, his weight dipped below 300 pounds, a significant change that was challenging to navigate.
However, the arrival of new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer heralds a new direction for Smith. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," an observation underscoring the difficulties Smith faced. Zimmer wants Smith to be more robust and effective in his role, encouraging him to play blocks more and refine his hand and footwork technique.
Smith’s Perspective
Smith himself acknowledges the need for these adjustments. "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," said Smith, reflecting a commitment to optimizing his performance under the new regime.
The Path Forward
Zimmer’s strategy is evidently focused on fundamental improvements. "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 outlines. This back-to-basics approach is designed to rebuild Smith’s confidence and effectiveness from the ground up.
Confidence from Peers
Teammate and star linebacker Micah Parsons is vocal about 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 asserts, placing high expectations on Smith but also signaling strong support.
Parsons’ encouragement continues, emphasizing the importance of mindset in Smith's development. "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 adds, highlighting the collective belief in Smith’s potential within the team.
Smith’s Own Ambitions
Smith remains determined and forward-looking as he integrates into the team's evolving schemes. "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 says, expressing confidence in his versatility and capability. This adaptability is vital as he works to balance the demands of different defensive approaches.
Smith’s focus is on carving out his unique path in the NFL. "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 explains, indicating a mature and measured approach to his professional journey.
As Mazi Smith prepares for the next season, the blend of strategic adjustments from the coaching staff, unwavering support from teammates, and his own resolute mindset sets the stage for what could be a breakout year. The Dallas Cowboys and their fans eagerly await to see how this promising player evolves and impacts the field.