Mazi Smith's Rookie Year: A Journey of Adaptation and Determination
Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was a season of adaptation and relentless effort. The young defensive tackle played in all 17 regular-season games, demonstrating his commitment and resilience despite various challenges. In his rookie season, Smith recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. His contributions on the field, while modest in statistical terms, showcased his potential and readiness to adjust to the demands of the NFL.
However, the season was not without its struggles. Smith logged only four snaps in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, which marked a low point in his otherwise eventful year. The dramatic change in his playing weight, a factor critical to his performance, was a significant adjustment for the former Michigan standout. Smith was listed at 337 pounds during his college career, weighed 323 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine, and saw his weight dip below 300 pounds to fit into defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme.
The fluctuating weight affected Smith's performance and adaptation to the league. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," said Mike Zimmer, the new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, who aims to reinvigorate Smith's role and effectiveness on the team. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, intending for him to play at 310-315 pounds in the upcoming season.
Zimmer emphasized focusing on the basics to enhance Smith's capabilities. "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." His goal is to harness Smith's physicality in a way that demands correct technique and consistency.
Mazi Smith himself acknowledges the need for these adjustments and embraces the opportunity to redefine his role under Zimmer's guidance. "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." The defensive tackle's commitment to improving is palpable, as he understands the importance of preparation and adaptability in achieving success.
Smith's determination is echoed by his teammate Micah Parsons, who recognizes the potential harbored within the rookie. "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' belief in Smith underscores the expectations placed on him and the support he has within the team.
Smith's history of versatility in his college career provides a foundation on which Zimmer can build. "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," said Smith. This adaptability and inherent strength are critical elements as he transitions to a more substantial weight and refines his techniques.
As Smith prepares for the upcoming season, he approaches it with a mindset focused on self-improvement rather than external accolades. "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." This outlook conveys Smith's recognition of the long-term journey ahead and his dedication to incremental and sustained growth.
Parsons, speaking on Smith's potential impact, stated, "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 support from teammates like Parsons fuels Smith's drive to become a formidable presence on the Cowboys' defensive line.
The upcoming season presents a fresh start for Mazi Smith, a chance to leverage his natural abilities and refined techniques under Mike Zimmer's coaching. The determination to perform and the preparation for a season tailored to his strengths will be key factors in his success. The Cowboys and their fanbase will be eagerly watching as Smith embarks on this next chapter of his professional career.