Dallas Cowboys rookie Mazi Smith faced a problem when he missed payments for his storage unit. Consequently, the unit’s contents were auctioned off, revealing an interesting assortment of items.
Reports on Twitter indicate that Mazi Smith, the team’s first-round pick, failed to pay for the unit, leading to its auction.
A TikTok video by V Broadway Finds showcased the unit’s contents, which included a Michigan Playbook and valuable items like exclusive cleats.
Included in his loss were Jim Harbaugh’s Michigan playbook, game-worn cleats, Jordan’s, designer clothes, and Halo Lego sets.
1. Jim Harbaugh’s Michigan Playbook: Among the treasures was a playbook from the “University of Michigan”, which adds an interesting twist. Perhaps it holds some strategic secrets or nostalgic memories for Mazi Smith.
A treasure trove of strategic football wisdom from the University of Michigan’s head coach, Jim Harbaugh.
2. Game-Worn Cleats: The auctioned storage unit contained “player-exclusive cleats”. These shoes are not your run-of-the-mill footwear; they’re likely customized and designed for performance on the field.
3. Designer Clothes: Mazi’s locker stash also included some “high-end designer clothing”. Whether it was stylish streetwear or formal attire, we can only imagine.
4. Halo Lego Sets: Now, this is where things get intriguing. “Halo-themed Lego sets” were part of the collection. Imagine assembling Master Chief and his futuristic world block by block!
5. Jordan Sneakers: The iconic “Jordan sneakers” made an appearance. These kicks have transcended sports and become a cultural phenomenon.
6. Other Expensive Items: While specifics aren’t mentioned, one can only imagine the assortment of valuable gear that adorned Mazi Smith’s locker.
The Cowboys took a bold step by selecting Mazi Smith in the first round of the 2023 draft, becoming the first time in over 30 years they used a first-round pick on a defensive tackle. However, Smith’s rookie season proved to be hugely disappointing, raising doubts about the decision.
Smith, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 337 pounds, was highly regarded for his size, speed, and athleticism during the draft process. Despite being raw as a player, coming from a Michigan defensive line that didn’t always maximize his physical traits, he showed potential as a pass-rusher. However, with only 0.5 career sacks, he lacked the production on game film.
Smith’s career with the Cowboys got off to a slow start, as he struggled in various aspects of the game. His lack of agility off the snap, inability to generate pressure, and inconsistency against the run made him a liability on the field. He played limited snaps on a defense in desperate need of an impact from the defensive tackle position.
Given the Cowboys’ history with Michigan defensive linemen, as evidenced by Taco Charlton’s underwhelming performance, there are concerns about the team’s ability to develop these players within their system. Patience was expected with Smith, but even with that in mind, he fell short of expectations.
It may be necessary for Smith to learn a completely new role in order to find success in Dallas. The Cowboys may need to reconsider their approach to drafting defensive tackles and find a better fit for their system.
The immediate future for Smith on the Cowboys’ defense is uncertain until his role is determined. He could either be the 1-tech or mentor under Odighizuwa as a 3-tech. It’s possible that the team has a combination role in mind for him.
Smith’s rookie performance suggests that he won’t have a significant role in 2024, at best he will be rotational.
Smith’s success will depend on his ability to improve and excel. Despite his talent, he needs to refine his skills.
The first priority is to find a suitable role for Smith. Initially drafted as a run-stopper with potential penetration skills, his weight loss has affected his immediate abilities. The Cowboys should utilize his size as a plugger and build upon it.
Smith needs to maintain a strong mindset. His first year may have been disappointing for fans, but it was likely even more so for him. The Cowboys need to help him achieve some victories before making any long-term projections.
Based on the Cowboys’ history with Michigan defensive linemen and Smith’s struggles, it’s clear that adjusting to the system and a new role will take time.
Michigan DT Mazi Smith doing a reactive plyo stairs test in 2.82 seconds 😯⏱
Aidan Hutchinson, who’s 60lbs lighter, did it in 2.57 seconds.
(via @UMichFootball)pic.twitter.com/7b1fqvoKPF
— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 10, 2022
Smith’s immediate future is uncertain until the Cowboys establish their defensive system and individual roles. He may either be a 1-tech or mentor under Odighizuwa as a 3-tech. He is not expected to have a prominent role in 2024, and his success depends on improving his skills.
The Cowboys should utilize his size and help him achieve victories to maintain a strong mental edge. Adjusting to the system and a new role will take time.
Mazi Smith’s storage unit reveals a mix of sports, style, and nostalgia, serving as a fascinating glimpse into the life of an athlete.
#Cowboys DT Mazi Smith missed making payments on his storage unit, so they auctioned off his locker.
Included were Jim Harbaugh’s Michigan playbook, player-exclusive cleats, and other expensive items.
(h/t @KwadeSays)
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 22, 2024
