Mazi Smith’s Journey of Adaptation and Transformation with the Dallas Cowboys
Mazi Smith’s rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was emblematic of both adaptation and unyielding effort. Emerging from a successful college career at Michigan, Smith's transition to the NFL was marked by significant changes, not least to his playing weight and the demands of a new defensive scheme.
An Adjustment Year
Smith's initial season saw him participate in all 17 regular-season games. During the 2023 season, he recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, the postseason spotlight was brief for Smith, as he logged only four snaps in the NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers.
In Michigan, Smith was a formidable presence on the defensive line, weighing in at 337 pounds in 2022. By the time he reached the 2023 NFL Combine, his weight had dropped to 323 pounds. The Cowboys, expecting versatility, directed him to reduce further weight to fit into Dan Quinn's defensive scheme, eventually seeing him dip below 300 pounds.
Transition to a New Defensive Scheme
The 2023 season was as much about survival as it was about learning for Smith. The weight loss impacted his performance, prompting the Cowboys to rethink their strategy. Mike Zimmer, the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, recognized the mismatch and is planning to allow Smith to return to a more comfortable, substantial playing weight.
“Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year,” Zimmer commented, highlighting how the weight transformation had not yielded the desired results.
Looking ahead, Zimmer is committed to helping Smith harness his natural abilities. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," the coordinator noted. This shift aims to capitalize on Smith's inherent strengths rather than forcing him into an ill-fitting mold.
Mazi Smith himself acknowledges this change, noting, "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."
New Opportunities Under Zimmer
The arrival of Zimmer brings a fresh perspective and a reset for the young defensive tackle. Smith’s mindset is centered on developing his core skills—block engagement, hand usage, and correct 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. 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," Zimmer emphasized.
While the initial adjustment period was rough, it has not dimmed Smith's spirit or ambition. “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 stated. This adaptability is a testament to his potential to thrive under Zimmer's guidance.
Support from Teammates
Smith's transition and aspirations have received backing from his teammates as well, notably from linebacker Micah Parsons. “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, underscoring the team's belief in Smith's potential.
Parsons' support extends 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." The camaraderie and encouragement from a key player like Parsons are invaluable for Smith as he navigates the complexities of NFL life.
Smith's own approach is resolute and focused on personal growth. “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,” Smith reflected, indicating a mindset geared towards long-term excellence rather than short-term accolades.
As Smith embraces his second season with the Dallas Cowboys, the blend of Zimmer’s strategic adjustments and the unwavering support from his teammates positions him well for a breakout year. With renewed confidence and a holistic approach to his game, the journey of adaptation shows promise of evolving into a narrative of resilience and success.