Adapting to the NFL: Mazi Smith’s Rookie Journey with the Cowboys
Mazi Smith's rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was emblematic of a season filled with adaptation and unyielding effort. Drafted to make an immediate impact, Smith found himself in a challenging transition from college football to the NFL.
A Season of Highs and Lows
Smith's presence was felt throughout the 2023 season as he played in all 17 regular-season games. His contributions on the field were marked by 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. However, despite these solid statistics, Smith's adaptation to the professional level was anything but smooth.
Weighing in at 337 pounds during his college days at Michigan, Smith saw a significant weight reduction to 323 pounds by the time he attended the 2023 NFL Combine. Under the Cowboys' defensive scheme led by Dan Quinn, Smith's weight further dipped below 300 pounds.
Strategic Changes Under Zimmer
The considerable weight loss proved challenging for Smith, as noted by Mike Zimmer, the newly appointed defensive coordinator for the Cowboys. "Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," shedding light on the difficulties Smith faced in maintaining his on-field intensity at a lighter weight.
However, the arrival of Zimmer brought a shift in strategy. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight, ideally around 310-315 pounds. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," indicating a more fundamental approach focusing on Smith's technical skills as a defensive lineman.
Smith himself acknowledged the necessity of control and adaptation in his role, saying, "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."
Building the Basics
Zimmer's approach is methodical and foundational. "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 explained.
Smith's versatility allows him to adapt to various schemes, a trait he values highly. "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," he stated.
The Support System
Micah Parsons, one of the Cowboys' defensive stars, expressed unwavering support for his teammate. "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' endorsement speaks volumes about the expectations placed on Smith and the belief in his potential. "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 emphasized.
Future Prospects
Despite the struggles and adjustments, Smith remains determined and focused on carving out his path in the NFL. "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," he reflected.
As Smith gears up for his second season, the combination of renewed physical preparation and Zimmer’s strategic oversight could be the key to unlocking his full potential. The Cowboys, along with their fans, eagerly await Smith's evolution from a promising rookie to a seasoned defensive stalwart.