Mazi Smith's Transformation under Mike Zimmer: A Fresh Start for the Dallas Cowboys Rookie
Mazi Smith's rookie season with the Dallas Cowboys was a challenging year filled with relentless effort and significant adaptation. The Michigan standout played in all 17 regular-season games and recorded 13 tackles, one sack, eight quarterback pressures, and three tackles for loss in the 2023 season. Despite his promising debut, the transition to the NFL proved less seamless in certain areas, particularly under the weight demands of Dan Quinn’s defensive scheme.
A Season of Adaptation
When Smith entered the NFL, his weight became a significant focus. At Michigan, he was listed at a hefty 337 pounds in 2022. At the 2023 NFL Combine, he had trimmed down to 323 pounds. Under Quinn’s scheme, Smith's weight further dipped below 300 pounds to adapt to an attacking three-technique role, attempting to quickly penetrate the offensive line. However, the drastic reduction in size might have hampered his natural playing style and strength.
"Zimmer noted Smith lost a lot of weight when he joined the Cowboys and struggled last year," said Mike Zimmer, the newly appointed defensive coordinator for the Cowboys. Zimmer’s comments shed light on the issues Smith faced, as he strived to adjust to an unfamiliar role.
New Scheme, New Weight
Zimmer has different plans for Smith and aims to allow him to return to a more substantial playing weight. Smith aims to play at around 310-315 pounds under Zimmer’s scheme, a weight range that aligns more closely with his natural build and playing style. "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 shared.
This shift in strategy is designed to leverage Smith's innate abilities more effectively. "Zimmer's plan is for Smith to play blocks more and use his hands and footwork correctly," Zimmer emphasized. "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."
A Clean Slate and Growing Expectations
Smith recognizes this new beginning as an opportunity to solidify his place within the team and take his career to the next level. "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 said, indicating his determination and drive to meet the new expectations laid before him.
The expectations are indeed high, not only from the coaching staff but also from his teammates. Micah Parsons, an established force on the Cowboys' defense, spoke highly of Smith’s potential and the confidence the team has in him. "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."
"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 added, underlining the support within the locker room as Smith navigates these changes.
A Promising Future
As the Cowboys look to improve their defense under Zimmer's guidance, Smith's transformation will be pivotal. His multifaceted skills, combining athleticism and strength, can translate into significant on-field success. "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 confidently stated.
The upcoming season will be crucial for Smith as he adapts to the new scheme and realigns with his optimal playing weight. With the support of his teammates and the strategic vision of Coach Zimmer, Mazi Smith is poised for a breakthrough season, encapsulating the relentless spirit and determination that defines a standout NFL player.