Smith's Rookie Year: A Season of Adaptation
In the 2023 season, defensive tackle Mazi Smith embarked on his rookie journey with the Dallas Cowboys, a year marked by adaptation and tenacity. Smith, who played all 17 regular-season games, recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss. Despite the statistics reflecting a commendable performance, his transition was far from easy.
During the NFC wild card round, Smith logged only four snaps in the Cowboys' loss to the Green Bay Packers, a stark reminder of the physical demands and strategic shifts at the professional level compared to college football.
Weight Changes and Scheme Adjustments
At the University of Michigan in 2022, Smith was listed at a robust 337 pounds. His weight reduced to 323 pounds by the 2023 NFL Combine. However, adhering to defensive coordinator Dan Quinn's scheme necessitated an even more significant shift, with Smith's weight dipping below 300 pounds. This substantial weight loss impacted his performance, as acknowledged by the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer.
"Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," Zimmer stated. The evident struggles led Zimmer to adjust the plan for Smith, emphasizing a return to a more substantial playing weight. Zimmer plans to allow Smith to play at around 310-315 pounds. Smith himself is on board with this strategy, highlighting his commitment to adapting for the sake of his performance and the team’s success.
"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 remarked, reflecting his readiness to make necessary adjustments.
Back to Basics with Zimmer
Zimmer's approach with Smith centers on mastering fundamentals. "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.
This back-to-basics strategy aims to harness Smith’s potential by refining his technique and understanding of the game, rather than merely fitting a preconceived scheme. Zimmer’s focus is clear: teach Smith to play blocks effectively and use his hands and footwork correctly.
Receiving Support from Teammates
Smith has received unwavering support from his teammates, notably from star 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," Parsons stated, underscoring the urgency and high expectations at the professional level.
Parsons further emphasized the importance of Smith’s role, "We drafted him to be in the game. That's how much confidence I have." This vote of confidence from a key player like Parsons is crucial for Smith’s morale and development.
Reflecting on his journey and aspirations, Smith expressed a desire to craft his path in the NFL. "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 noted. This versatility is what he aims to bring to the Cowboys under Zimmer’s guidance.
"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 added. His grounded yet hopeful approach indicates a maturity and understanding of the rigors and realities of professional football.
A Glimpse into the Future
The journey ahead for Mazi Smith is one of balancing weight management, skill refinement, and strategic execution. Zimmer’s plan to let him revert to a more robust playing weight while focusing on fundamental techniques aims to maximize Smith's potential as a dominant defensive force. Parsons echoed this sentiment, stating, "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."
As Smith gears up for the upcoming seasons under the new defensive scheme, the Dallas Cowboys and their fans remain hopeful for a significant impact. Mazi Smith’s rookie year may have been challenging, but with relentless effort and strong support from his team, the foundations are firmly in place for a promising future.