Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith did not travel with the team to their second preseason game due to an allergic reaction, the team announced. Smith, who experienced the allergic reaction during training camp, received treatment and will be reevaluated, with his game status to be updated later. The Cowboys left open the possibility of Smith joining the team in Las Vegas for the game against the Raiders after the incident occurred at their practice facility in Oxnard, California. The 23-year-old was drafted by the Cowboys in the 2023 NFL Draft as the No. 26 overall pick and had a relatively uneventful rookie season, starting three games and recording 13 total tackles, three tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, and one sack.
Smith, a Michigan native who played college football at the University of Michigan, was named First-team All-Big Ten in his senior year in 2022. Despite the disappointing end to his rookie season with the Cowboys, Smith is preparing for his second NFL season and is expected to play a more significant role. New defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has a plan for Smith, which involves moving him from the 3-technique position to play more blocks in the new defensive scheme. Zimmer emphasized the importance of Smith playing blocks and fitting where linebackers are supposed to be, drawing on his college experience to shape his role in the Cowboys’ defense going forward.
The Cowboys are optimistic about Smith’s recovery from the allergic reaction and look forward to seeing him make an impact once the regular season begins in less than three weeks. With high expectations for his sophomore season, Smith’s development and performance will be closely monitored as the Cowboys aim to build on their previous success. Despite missing the preseason game against the Raiders, Smith’s absence is viewed as precautionary, and the team remains hopeful that he will be back on the field soon. As a key player on the defensive line, Smith’s presence is crucial for the Cowboys’ defense to perform at its best and achieve their goals for the upcoming season.
As the Cowboys continue their preparations for the regular season, the focus shifts to Smith’s role and contribution on defense. With a new defensive coordinator in place and a plan in motion for Smith’s position and responsibilities, the team is optimistic about the impact he can make in the upcoming season. Smith’s potential to make a name for himself in the league and help lead the Cowboys to success is a key storyline to watch as the season approaches. The team’s faith in Smith’s abilities and potential for growth as a player further underscores the importance of his development and performance as the Cowboys aim to contend for a championship in the upcoming season. With his talent and determination, Smith is poised to play a significant role in shaping the Cowboys’ defense and contributing to their success on the field.
