Key Takeaways:
– Mazi Smith, Dallas Cowboy’s first-round pick in 2023, is expected to show improved gaming prowess under new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer.
– Smith’s role is speculated to alter, enhancing his proficiency on the field, following the departure of Hankins and Neville Gallimore.
– Dallas Cowboys are eagerly awaiting the emergence of a consistent third option in wide receivers behind Lamb and Brandin Cooks, with Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks as potentials.
– Dallas Cowboys All-Pro edge rusher, Micah Parsons, is planning a return to the team despite his ongoing contract negotiation issues.
Article:
The Dallas Cowboys are looking forward to a transformative season with fresh strategies and better player coordination under new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer. The potential for improvement brightly shines on one Dallas Cowboys player in particular – defensive tackle Mazi Smith. Despite a less pronounced performance in the last season, the 6’3″, 337-pound athlete has been tipped for a possible breakout this time around.
Mazi Smith – Dallas Cowboys Defensive Tackle
Smith, taken as the No. 26 overall pick by the Cowboys in the 2023 draft, could not make much of an impression in his initial season. His record shows just 13 total tackles, one sack, and three losses over the course of three starts in 17 appearances. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, however, predicts a positive change for Smith, suggesting possible comeback this season.
Zimmer’s Boost to Smith’s Athletic Prowess
In agreement with Knox, Zimmer is keen on utilising the immense power and athleticism Smith possesses, which is a rare combination for a player of his size. He plans to recalibrate Smith’s defensive game, starting from basics and gradually increasing his involvement on the field. “We’re gonna start with the basics, get him in a good stance, get him using his hands the right way, getting his footwork the right way,” Zimmer stated, showing optimism in Smith’s ability.
Rising Expectations for Dallas Wide Receivers
Switching the focus to Dallas Cowboys’ wide receivers, the team, in the absence of CeeDee Lamb and post the departure of Michael Gallup, are on the lookout for a reliable third option to join Lamb and Brandin Cooks. Receiver hopefuls Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks are considered to be in good standing and are expected to make big strides this season.
Tolbert recorded 22 catches for 268 yards with two touchdowns last season, while Brooks saw six catches for 64 yards. Wide receivers coach, Robert Prince, expressed confidence in both players, stating “It starts with [Jalen Tolbert]… And Jalen Brooks, he works hard and he’s one of those guys that’s always studying…”
Micah Parsons’ Planned Comeback Amid Contract Stalemate
In another significant turn of events for the Cowboys, Micah Parsons, the All-Pro edge rusher is planning his comeback. Despite disagreements on a new long-term contract which kept him away from the team’s voluntary offseason program, Parsons has announced his return by next week. According to NFL Network reporter Jane Slater, Parsons will be participating in media duties and minicamp commitments.
In conclusion, Dallas Cowboys’ new strategies under Zimmer and the planned comeback of Micah Parsons are raising the excitement bar for the forthcoming season. All eyes are on Mazi Smith to see if he can leverage this opportunity and justify his potential with a commanding performance.