The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical decision regarding their 2023 first-round draft pick, Mazi Smith, as the defensive tackle has struggled to meet expectations in his third season with the team. Selected 26th overall to bolster the Cowboys’ run defense, Smith has yet to establish himself as a reliable starter, prompting discussions about his future with the franchise. With the recent acquisition of veteran Kenny Clark, Smith has been relegated to a backup role, fueling speculation that he could be on the trade block.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox recently suggested that the Cowboys should consider moving on from the 24-year-old, proposing that a trade to an AFC team like the Kansas City Chiefs or New York Jets could benefit both Smith and the Cowboys. “Smith is now listed as a backup and could probably benefit from a change of scenery,” Knox wrote. “The Cowboys, meanwhile, should be willing to listen to any reasonable offer for him since the 24-year-old doesn’t look like a long-term building block in Dallas.”
This potential trade scenario comes as a shock, especially given the high hopes pinned on Smith when he was drafted. The Cowboys had envisioned him as a cornerstone of their defensive line, particularly in addressing their persistent struggles against the run. However, despite being given ample opportunities to secure a starting role during the offseason, Smith has been unable to deliver, leading to Dallas’ decision to bring in Clark to anchor the defensive front.
Knox believes that trading Smith could yield a fifth-round pick, a significant downgrade from his first-round draft status. While this return may seem disappointing for a player of Smith’s pedigree, it could be a pragmatic move for Dallas. The trade would provide Smith with a fresh start elsewhere while allowing the Cowboys to focus on developing other promising talents, such as Jay Toia, who has shown potential to become a valuable run-stuffer.
The suggestion of trading Smith to an AFC team like the Chiefs or Jets adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Both teams could benefit from adding a young, high-upside defensive tackle to their roster, especially if they believe a change of scenery could unlock Smith’s potential. For the Cowboys, moving on from a player who has not panned out as expected could free up resources and opportunities for others, even if it means parting ways with a former first-round pick.
This development has sparked debate among Cowboys fans and analysts, with some viewing it as a necessary step to cut losses and others lamenting the missed opportunity to develop a player with Smith’s physical tools. As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Dallas to see if they pull the trigger on this stunning proposal, potentially reshaping their defensive line and giving Smith a chance to revive his career elsewhere.