Smith's Season of Adaptation
Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was marked by a season of adaptation and relentless effort. The highly-touted defensive tackle from Michigan faced significant adjustments as he transitioned from the college game to the NFL. Smith's journey was characterized by a series of physical and technical changes aimed at fitting into the Cowboys' defensive schemes.
The young lineman played all 17 regular-season games in his debut year, recording 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. Despite these achievements, Smith encountered challenges, particularly with his weight and on-field technique.
"Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," said Mike Zimmer, the Dallas Cowboys' new defensive coordinator. Indeed, Smith, who was listed at 337 pounds during his college career at Michigan in 2022, weighed in at 323 pounds at the 2023 NFL Combine. To fit into former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme, his weight dipped below 300 pounds.
Zimmer's New Approach
With Zimmer's arrival, a new approach is in place. The seasoned coordinator plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, targeting 310-315 pounds. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," he explained, emphasizing foundational skills over immediate results.
Smith embraced the challenge and the new opportunity. "I did everything I was supposed to do and did nothing but train. Everything in my power. Control the controllables," Smith stated. "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."
Zimmer’s focus is on refining Smith’s basics, including his stance, hand usage, 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," Zimmer emphasized. "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."
Support from Teammates
Smith's teammates are also rooting for his development and success. Star linebacker Micah Parsons spoke highly of Smith's potential and his role within the team. "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.
Parsons recognized Smith's versatility and strength, crucial traits for the new defensive scheme. "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 mentioned. As a testament to his readiness, he added, "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."
Parsons is confident in Smith's ability to rise to the occasion. "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.
Looking Ahead
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Mazi Smith and his progression under Mike Zimmer’s watchful guidance. By hitting the weight targets and honing fundamental skills, Smith is positioned to become a crucial part of the Cowboys' defensive line. This period of transformation signals a promising direction for both Smith and the Dallas Cowboys, paving the way for success in the games to come.