#Cowboys Drafting Mazi Smith Pick No. 26 The Strongest DT To Help "STOP" The RUN...

In the center of Michigan's defense, Smith is a fantastic run-stuffer. At the moment of attack, he plays with exceptional physical strength to dismantle blocking strategies. His physicality and power are a benefit because they enable him to reset the line of scrimmage. Smith is a powerful puncher with a heavy fist who excels in the running game. Smith lacks the ideal arm length to effectively stack and shed blocks. He needs to defeat opponents near to him like a boxer with a shorter reach. Smith has erratic trigger action at the release. There are instances where he is tardy, which puts him in a difficult situation. Smith is still developing as a pass rushing player. Top Reasons to Buy In: Outstanding size/strength combo Top-tier run defender Pass-rush upside Overview Dontari Poe might be the physical and athletic player comparison for Smith, but more consistency from Smith is needed before he finds the Pro Bowl, as Poe did twice in his career. Smith’s blend of size and quickness is rare. He can punch and control a base block with relative ease. However, he struggles to match the initial movement of move blockers, which diminishes his effectiveness. He has space-eating potential but needs to become more consistent at taking on double teams and securing his gap. Smith’s size and testing could give his draft slotting some juice but he’s more of a Day 2 talent with exciting upside than a plug-and-play starter. Strengths Possesses rare combination of size and athleticism. Bendy and stout in his lower half. Power to punch and lift blocker under his pads. Plays with lively feet and short-area quickness. Able to slide, swim and seize the gap.