Adapting to the NFL: Mazi Smith's Rookie Journey with the Cowboys
Mazi Smith’s rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys was marked by an arduous journey of adaptation and unyielding determination. Drafted with high expectations, Smith faced a steep learning curve in the professional league, but his commitment to refining his skills and fitting into the team's defensive schema showcased his resilience.
Consistent Presence in the Regular Season
The former Michigan standout played in all 17 regular-season games, a testament to his durability and the trust the coaching staff placed in him. Throughout the 2023 season, Smith’s defensive contributions included 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. His consistent presence on the field underlined his ability to maintain performance amidst the rigor of an NFL season.
However, his first taste of the NFL postseason was brief. Smith logged a mere four snaps in the Cowboys’ NFC wild card round playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers, a game that highlighted the steep competition and higher stakes in playoff football.
Weight Management and Scheme Fit
Smith's weight and conditioning became focal points of his rookie year. During his college career at Michigan, Smith was listed at a formidable 337 pounds. By the time he attended the 2023 NFL Combine, he had slimmed down to 323 pounds. As he integrated into the Cowboys' defense, Smith’s weight dropped even further, dipping below 300 pounds to align with the demands of defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s scheme.
Yet, this significant weight loss appeared to be a double-edged sword. Mike Zimmer, who took over as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, observed, "Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year." Recognizing the need for a balance between agility and strength, Zimmer plans to allow Smith to return to a more substantial playing weight.
Smith himself seems to favor this approach. "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." This adjustment is expected to help Smith better utilize his natural strengths and adapt to Zimmer’s vision for his role.
Refining Technique
A key aspect of Smith’s development under Zimmer will be honing his technique, especially in playing blocks and using his hands and footwork effectively. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," Zimmer explained. "He was trying to be an attacking three-technique to get up the field... We're gonna start with the basics."
This back-to-basics approach aims to ground Smith in the fundamental skills that will be essential for his growth and effectiveness in the NFL. Smith noted, "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."
Team Confidence and Support
Despite the challenges of his rookie season, Smith has the confidence and backing of his teammates and coaches. Linebacker Micah Parsons expressed strong support, saying, "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 further highlighted the collective belief in Smith’s 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."
Looking Forward
For Mazi Smith, the upcoming season represents a new chapter. Reflecting on his first year, he remains optimistic and grounded in his aspirations. "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 shared.
With the guidance of Mike Zimmer and the unwavering support of his teammates, Smith is poised to make significant strides. His journey is a compelling narrative of adaptation, growth, and the unrelenting pursuit of excellence in the world of professional football.