A Year of Growth: Mazi Smith's Rookie Season with the Dallas Cowboys
Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was a journey of adaptation, intense effort, and continuous learning. The former Michigan standout played all 17 regular-season games, a testament to his durability and commitment, but his on-field performance indicated an important transition.
Smith registered 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss in the 2023 season—solid numbers for a rookie but below the lofty expectations set for him. The young defensive lineman saw limited action in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, logging only four snaps, a clear sign that there’s room for growth and adjustment.
The Weight Game
At Michigan, Smith was listed at a hefty 337 pounds in 2022. At the 2023 NFL Combine, his weight was down to 323 pounds. The downward trend continued as he adapted to Dan Quinn's defensive scheme, eventually dipping below 300 pounds. This weight fluctuation may have contributed to his struggles on the field.
Mike Zimmer, who has taken over as the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, has a different vision for Smith. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," Zimmer explained. The seasoned coach plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, giving him a target range of 310-315 pounds. Zimmer emphasized the importance of technique in Smith's growth: "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly."
Transition and Future Plans
Smith himself acknowledges the significance of these changes. "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," he said.
Zimmer's approach emphasizes fundamentals over flash. "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."
Support from Teammates
Micah Parsons, a linebacker and a key player for the Cowboys, has shown unwavering 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 remarked.
Parsons remains firmly in Smith's corner, rooting for his growth and improvement. "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."
Smith's Take on the Future
Reflecting on his journey thus far, Smith remains optimistic and determined. "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 said, insisting on his versatility and potential.
Smith is also clear about his future goals and approach. "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."
Mazi Smith's rookie season was undoubtedly a learning experience full of challenges, adjustments, and growth. As he prepares for the next chapter under the guidance of Mike Zimmer, the Cowboys—and their fans—remain hopeful that he will develop into the disruptive force they envisioned when they drafted him.