Mazi Smith

Player Information

Mazi Smith is a professional American football defensive tackle for the New York Jets in the NFL. Born on June 16, 2001, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he attended East Kentwood High School and gained recognition as one of the top recruits in the Class of 2019. After playing college football for the Michigan Wolverines, he was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, making a significant impact in his rookie season. Smith's versatility and skill on the field quickly established him as a key player, leading to his eventual trade to the New York Jets in 2025.
Full Name :
Mazi Smith
Birthdate :
16 June 2001
Birthplace :
Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
Gender :
Male
Height (cm) :
191
Weight (kg) :
153
Nationality :
United States
Education :
East Kentwood High School (High School), Michigan (College)
Career Started :
2023
Notable Achievements :
First-team All-Big Ten (2022)
Current Team :
New York Jets
Previous Teams :
Dallas Cowboys (From 2023, To 2025)
Drafted :
2023
Drafted by :
Dallas Cowboys
Active Status :
From - 2023, To - Present
Contract :
Contract Year 2025 to 2026

Biography

Mazi Smith is a professional NFL player who was drafted 26th overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 2023. Growing up in a supportive family, his passion for football was apparent from a young age. He established himself as a standout defensive lineman at the University of Michigan, recognized for his exceptional athleticism. As he develops his skills, particularly in pass rushing, his potential impact on the field continues to grow considerably. More insights on his path await.

Early Life

Mazi Smith developed a passion for football at a young age, demonstrating his talent as a standout defensive lineman during his time at East Kentwood High School. His impressive athleticism and strength caught the attention of college recruiters, leading him to enroll at the University of Michigan.

Remarkably, he topped Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List, emphasizing his exceptional physical capabilities. Smith’s dedication and hard work culminated in his selection as the 26th total pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, marking a notable milestone in his football career.

Family Life

Mazi Smith grew up in a supportive family environment that greatly emphasized hard work and dedication.

His mother has publicly expressed immense pride in his character and potential, highlighting her notable influence on his development as a player.

Mazi maintains strong ties with his family, which serve as a continuous source of motivation and encouragement throughout his football career.

This steadfast family support has been vital in his path to becoming a top-round NFL draft pick.

Career

Mazi Smith was drafted 26th in total by the Dallas Cowboys in 2023 and has encountered challenges in his early career.

Despite starting all 17 games in the 2024 season, he struggled with pass rushing and maintaining defensive gaps. Following the departure of veteran Johnathan Hankins, Smith was promoted to a starting role in 2025, where he is expected to improve alongside teammate Osa Odighizuwa.

As of now, Smith has recorded 2.0 career sacks and features a weighted AV of 9, highlighting his potential for growth in the league.

Net Worth

As of October 2023, Mazi Smith’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million, largely attributed to his projected rookie contract with the Dallas Cowboys, which is valued between $10-12 million.

While specific salary figures from his top performances are not available, his earnings from endorsements are expected to contribute considerably as he advances in his career, potentially solidifying his net worth at or above the $10 million mark.