Micah Parsons speaks on the improvement he wants from Mazi Smith, and how he is helping him
The Dallas Cowboys are hoping that defensive tackle Mazi Smith, last year’s first-round pick, takes a big step forward in his second season. At least one teammate is openly rooting for him, and it’s an important one in All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons.
The franchise pass rusher shared words of encouragement about Smith with the media on Friday. Parsons, Dallas’ 2021 first-rounder, was an out-of-the-box NFL elite and has remained top-tier for three seasons. Along with being the best player on the field for the defense, Parsons now seems to be taking on a leadership role with the team.
Micah Parsons on Mazi Smith: “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. They usually try to find someone else to do it if you can’t. It’s what Mazi has to be.…
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 27, 2024
This isn’t your typical “we believe in him” and “he’s our guy” boilerplate talk. Parsons went in on Smith’s draft status, expectations, and the need for the Michigan product to start putting in the effort to realize his potential. But instead of sounding frustrated, Parsons said it with a tone of true camaraderie and genuine belief in what his teammate can do.
As Parsons freely admitted, the Cowboys’ defense can’t afford for Smith to be a bust. Even without that first-round pick hanging around his neck, the DT position is pretty bare after Osa Odighizua. Smith needs to be a capable starter now, particularly as the nose tackle, to help Dallas improve against the run and be competitive in 2024.
Ultimately, it’s up to the player. But even if Smith doesn’t rise to the occasion, it’s good to see Parsons stepping up as a mentor. With veteran DeMarcus Lawrence likely playing his last season in Dallas, a leadership void will soon need to be filled. It’s always ideal if your most vocal players are also your best ones, and Parsons has all of the credentials for the assignment.
After Dallas landed Parsons, Tyler Smith, and CeeDee Lamb with first-round picks from 2020-2022, the bar is incredibly high for Mazi Smith. He doesn’t have to reach their level to be successful, but the team will suffer this season if he doesn’t start contributing. Hopefully, teammates like Parsons, new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, and other coaches will help Smith realize new heights in 2024.