The Dallas Cowboys' decision to draft Mazi Smith has proven to be a journey of adaptation, resilience, and growth. Smith's rookie year was marked by the challenges of transitioning from college football's defensive dynamics to the more intricate and demanding schemes of the NFL, under the guiding hand of a new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer.
From College to NFL: A Weighty Transition
Smith, who weighed 337 pounds during his final year at Michigan, showed an immediate commitment to meeting the Cowboys' demands. At the 2023 NFL Combine, he had slimmed down to 323 pounds, a move intended to align with Dan Quinn's defensive strategies. However, this drastic reduction posed its own set of difficulties.
“Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year,” revealed the new defensive coordinator.
The physical toll was visible in his performance. While Smith valiantly played all 17 regular-season games, his stats reflected the adjustment pains. With 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss, it was clear Smith was grappling with both physical and strategic transitions. His limited appearance in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, where he logged just four snaps, underscored these struggles.
A New Defensive Vision
The arrival of Mike Zimmer as the Cowboys' defensive coordinator marked a potential turning point for Smith. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, recognizing that his previous weight loss might have hindered his natural abilities.
"Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," he stated, emphasizing a back-to-basics approach aimed at rebuilding Smith's efficacy on the field. Zimmer’s strategy is to harness Smith’s natural build and skills, refining his technique and leveraging his intrinsic strengths.
Smith, fully aware of the demands and expectations, is prepared for this next phase. "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," Smith expressed, indicating his readiness to adapt and optimize his performance under the new scheme.
Embracing a New Role
Zimmer envisions a more classic defensive approach, affording Smith the opportunity to leverage his physicality and athleticism. "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," noted Zimmer.
This pragmatic approach is not just about physical changes but also about a mental and strategic recalibration. Smith's versatility, which he showcased during his college career, will be crucial. “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, reiterating his commitment to evolving as per the team's needs.
Support from Teammates
Teammates like Micah Parsons have expressed strong support for Smith, highlighting both the potential and the necessity for his development. “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, underscoring the stakes involved.
Parsons' support goes beyond mere words. “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,” he added, emphasizing the collective belief and expectation within the team.
A Clean Slate and New Aspirations
Now, as Smith steps into a crucial sophomore year, he approaches it with a renewed sense of purpose and aspiration. “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,” Smith concluded, highlighting a mature and determined mindset as he looks forward to making a significant impact under Zimmer’s new defensive scheme and at his improved playing weight.
The road ahead for Mazi Smith is undoubtedly challenging, but with refined strategies, supportive teammates, and an unwavering commitment to growth, the Dallas Cowboys' investment in their defensive lineman may yet bear fruitful results in the seasons to come.