+After the NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys may cut $13 million defensive tackle Mazi Smith this offseason after having one of the league’s worst tenures. According to reports, many believe the Cowboys should release Smith since he hasn’t been able to pull his weight with the pass rushing unit in the trenches, recording one sack and just 22 solo tackles last year. Originally selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the former Michigan product hasn’t done much to prove to the organization that he’s elite. Last season, the team was third in the league for sacking the opposing quarterback, but none of that was much of a contribution from Smith.
It’s hard to imagine the Cowboys would attempt to trade given that he hasn’t done much to prove he is a full-time starter. With that, the best thing for Dallas is to release him, and that could happen if they draft a new defensive tackle, especially if they select one during the first night of the draft. Smith was an exciting pick for the Cowboys, but with a new defensive coordinator in Matt Eberflus and new pass rushers coming in, it seems like the team will rebuild their defense again. It didn’t take long for the former first-rounder to disappoint so much that analysts believe that he is one of the most “daunting” picks in past drafts.
Breaking: Cowboys May Cut $13 Million Starter Mazi Smith After NFL Draft – 5 Possible Fits
Next Possible Teams
Los Angeles Chargers
After an unexpected run to the postseason this past season, the Los Angeles Chargers probably had one of the worst offseasons before the NFL Draft. Despite signing Da’Shawn Hand and bringing back Teair Tart, the Chargers lost Poona Ford, their best defensive lineman. The team could trade for Smith to add some depth behind Tart and give a boost in rotation to strengthen the defense that has Scott Matlock and Hand in their starting positions.
New Orleans Saints
Meanwhile, the Saints made a few critical moves this offseason, keeping the same talent and strengthening the defense despite the cap space. Chase Young is still past his prime, and someone like Davon Godchaux is a good step to boost the unit. However, they could use a defensive tackle like Smith to help older guys like Cameron Jordan get after the quarterback.
Kansas City Chiefs
It’s never a bad idea to add more talent to this Kansas City Chiefs defensive line. Chris Jones is one of the best defensive tackles in the league, but Smith could use his mentorship as a backup. Jerry Tillery and Mike Pennel Jr. have yet to prove to be efficient starters, so perhaps, Smith could fit the mold and begin reviving his career in this unit.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have done phenomenally well building a capable defense this offseason to help Bryce Young get more field time. While they got their two outside lineman like Tershawn Wharton and Derrick Brown, it’s time for the team to add a capable defensive tackle. Bobby Brown and Shy Tuttle are still unproven, and Smith’s presence could increase the competition.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills need more defensive linemen despite signing Joey Bosa to help bolster the pass-rushing unit. Buffalo had their focus extending talent in the secondary, but someone like Smith could strengthen this roster. Smith won’t be the final answer, but it gives them a cheap consolidation prize since all of their cap space is being eaten up by quarterback Josh Allen.
