The Dallas Cowboys have selected Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Mazi Smith with the No. 26 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft on Thursday Night.
Smith was the No. 39 ranked prospect and No. 1 ranked 1-technique defensive tackle on 105.3 The Fan NFL Draft insider Bryan Broaddus' Big Board.
In three years at Michigan, Smith was a force in the middle of the line, anchoring one of the best defensive lines in the nation.
During his time in Ann Arbor, Smith finished with 88 tackles, six tackles for loss and .5 sacks. Smith is known for his impressive quickness, powerful hands and run stopping ability - something the Cowboys desperately needed after giving up 129.3 yards on the ground per game last season.
At 6-foot-3 and 323 pounds, Smith size and quickness are a rare combination, and he has perhaps the best physical tools for a 1-tech defensive tackle in the class.
Smith should come in and challenge for a starting spot along the front immediately, where he could make an instant impact for a team that needed help in that area of the line.