Mazi Smith's Transformational Rookie Season: The Foundation for a Promising Future
Mazi Smith's inaugural year with the Dallas Cowboys revealed a narrative of adaptation, struggle, and unyielding effort. The former Michigan standout's journey through his rookie campaign was anything but typical. Playing in all 17 regular-season games, Smith showcased flashes of what made him a high draft pick, recording 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss during the 2023 season. Yet beneath the statistics lies a deeper tale of physical transformation and a hopeful reversal of fortune.
An Unexpected Drop in Weight
Upon entering the NFL, Smith faced a significant adjustment, most notably pertaining to his weight. At Michigan in 2022, Smith was a formidable 337 pounds. However, by the time he stepped onto the scale at the 2023 NFL Combine, he weighed 323 pounds. The transformation didn’t stop there. As he acclimated to the defensive schemes under Dan Quinn, his weight dropped further, dipping below 300 pounds.
This drastic reduction was not without its consequences. According to Mike Zimmer, the Cowboys' newly-appointed defensive coordinator, "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year." The plan now, under Zimmer’s guidance, is for Smith to bulk up to a more comfortable and effective playing weight. Smith aims to play at around 310-315 pounds under the new scheme.
The Zimmer Effect
Mike Zimmer's arrival as the defensive coordinator marks a new chapter for the Cowboys' defense and for Smith personally. Zimmer envisions leveraging Smith's physical prowess more effectively. Zimmer's philosophy emphasizes fundamental techniques. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," he stated, outlining the roadmap for Smith’s development.
The seasoned defensive coordinator is focused on refining all aspects of Smith’s game. "He was trying to be an attacking three-technique to get up the field... 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."
Mazi Smith's Resolve
For Smith, the changes herald a chance for reinvention. Reflecting on his rookie year, Smith remarked, "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 is determined to transcend merely living up to expectations. He stated resolutely, "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," echoed Micah Parsons, a teammate who has been vocal in his support.
The Road Ahead
A clean slate presents an opportunity for Smith to script his own success. He iterated his versatile capabilities, "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’s approach is grounded in self-improvement rather than external validation. "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 attitude, coupled with Zimmer’s support and vision, positions Smith for a potentially transformative sophomore season.
Micah Parsons' Support
Micah Parsons, a pivotal figure on the Cowboys' defense, sees immense potential in Smith. "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 blend of Parsons' encouragement, Zimmer’s tactical adjustments, and Smith’s unwavering dedication sets the stage for what could be a remarkable turnaround. As Smith prepares to tackle his second year in the NFL, the focus will remain on fundamentals, physical strength, and a relentless drive to fulfill the high expectations set for him.