Mazi Smith's Rookie Year: A Season of Trials and Transformation
Mazi Smith's rookie season with the Dallas Cowboys was marked by both growing pains and potential. Suitable for a player of his caliber, Smith played in all 17 regular-season games, showcasing his prowess and determination. Despite the inevitable challenges, his stats tell a story of persistence rather than disappointment. Smith recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. These numbers set the stage for what could be a promising NFL career.
However, Smith's involvement in the postseason was surprisingly limited. In the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, he logged only four snaps, raising questions about his fit within Dan Quinn’s defensive scheme. Initially listed at 337 pounds during his time at Michigan, Smith dropped to 323 pounds by the 2023 NFL Combine. Eventually, his weight fell below 300 pounds, indicating an attempt to adapt to his new role. This significant weight loss didn't come without repercussions.
Struggles and Adjustments
Mike Zimmer, the new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, acknowledges the difficulties Smith faced. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," he stated. Zimmer's arrival marks a shift in strategy, one that might better suit Smith's natural playing style. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, fitting him more comfortably into the defensive scheme. Smith aims to play at a weight of 310-315 pounds under Zimmer’s guidance.
"Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," the defensive coordinator added. These adjustments are designed to maximize Smith's physical strengths and football IQ. The objective is to return to fundamental techniques—getting him into a good stance and ensuring precise hand and footwork. "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," said Zimmer.
A Fresh Start Under New Guidance
For Smith, the opportunity to redefine his role is a welcomed change. "I did everything I was supposed to do and did nothing but train. Everything in my power. Control the controllables," Smith shared. His focus on what lies within his control is unwavering. The new scheme brings a shift in mindset for Smith who acknowledges, "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 versatility has always been one of his key attributes. "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 observed. This intrinsic adaptability is what could make Smith an invaluable asset under Zimmer's direction.
Team Support and Expectations
Alongside the coaching staff, Smith's teammates are also rooting for his success. Micah Parsons, a standout for the Cowboys, has expressed immense confidence in Smith. "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 stated unequivocally. His support extends beyond words, indicating the integral role Smith is expected to play moving forward.
Parsons stands in Smith's corner firmly, underscoring the importance of mindset and willpower in unlocking his potential. "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 remarked.
Smith himself remains determined to craft his journey on his terms. "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 shared, reflecting a mature and forward-focused attitude.
As Mazi Smith gears up for the next chapter of his NFL career with rejuvenated preparation and support, the weight of expectations rests on broad shoulders ready to rise to the challenge. With Mike Zimmer’s revamped strategy and the backing of teammates like Micah Parsons, Smith’s quest to be the best version of himself begins anew.