Cowboys Cut Ties? Why Mazi Smith Could Be Traded to the Lions
The Dallas Cowboys’ defensive line has been a topic of much discussion this season, and after a Week 2 victory against the New York Giants, some questions still linger. While the team secured a win, Mazi Smith, the former first-round pick, was inactive for the second consecutive game. This inactivity has fueled speculation: are the Cowboys preparing to cut ties with Smith, and could the Detroit Lions be a potential trade partner?
Mazi Smith’s Rocky Start in Dallas
Mazi Smith entered the NFL with high expectations. Drafted as the 26th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Cowboys hoped he would quickly develop into a dominant force on their defensive line. Smith started all 17 games in 2024, recording 41 tackles and one sack. However, his performance has been inconsistent, and his long-term fit within the Cowboys’ defensive scheme remains uncertain.
Several factors contribute to the questions surrounding Smith’s future in Dallas. The Cowboys’ defensive line has undergone significant changes, including trading star pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers and acquiring Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark. These moves have created increased competition and potentially diminished Smith’s role.
The Impact of Kenny Clark
The acquisition of Kenny Clark is a significant factor in Mazi Smith’s uncertain future. Clark, a proven Pro Bowler, immediately steps into a starting role, solidifying the Cowboys’ defensive interior. His presence could limit Smith’s opportunities to develop and contribute meaningfully.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report suggests that “With Kenny Clark now manning the middle of their defense, the Cowboys appear to have little interest in letting Smith learn on the field.” This sentiment reflects the reality that the Cowboys may prioritize immediate performance over Smith’s long-term development.
Could the Lions Be a Landing Spot?
If the Cowboys are indeed considering moving on from Mazi Smith, the Detroit Lions emerge as a potential trade partner. The Lions are always looking to bolster their defensive line, and Smith’s potential could be enticing.
The Lions’ defensive line has undergone its own set of changes. They lost key defensive starter Levi Onwuzurike for the entire 2025 season due to an ACL injury. While they have a solid foundation with players like Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and D.J. Reader, adding depth and potential is always a priority.
What Would a Trade Look Like?
According to Bleacher Report, Mazi Smith’s trade value is estimated to be a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This low valuation reflects Smith’s underperformance and the Cowboys’ potential willingness to move on from him.
For the Lions, acquiring Smith for a late-round pick would be a low-risk, high-reward move. They would be banking on the idea that a change of scenery and a different coaching staff could unlock Smith’s potential. As Knox notes, “He’s still a 6’3″, 337-pound former first-round pick with a tremendous amount of untapped potential. A change of scenery might be required for him to reach it.”
The Lions’ Defensive Needs
The Detroit Lions have specific needs on their defensive line that Mazi Smith could potentially address. While they have invested heavily in the defensive front, depth and versatility are always valuable.
With Alim McNeill recovering from an ACL injury, the Lions need additional depth at defensive tackle. Smith, with his size and strength, could provide valuable snaps in the interior of the defensive line.
The Cowboys’ Perspective
From the Cowboys’ perspective, trading Mazi Smith would offer several benefits. First, it would free up valuable cap space. Smith’s four-year, $13.2 million rookie contract runs through 2026, and trading him would alleviate some of that financial burden.
Second, it would allow the Cowboys to recoup some draft capital, even if it’s just a late-round pick. As the Cowboys have demonstrated a knack for finding talent in the later rounds, any additional draft picks are valuable.
Other Potential Suitors
While the Detroit Lions are a logical potential trade partner for Mazi Smith, other teams could also be interested. The Kansas City Chiefs have been mentioned as a possible destination, as they are looking to add depth to their defensive line behind All-Pro Chris Jones. The Seattle Seahawks have also been suggested as a landing spot, reuniting Smith with former teammate DeMarcus Lawrence.
The Financial Implications
The Dallas Cowboys have a significant amount of salary cap space available. According to Sports Illustrated, the Cowboys have $39 million in available cap space, ranking them second in the NFL. This financial flexibility allows them to make moves to improve their roster, whether through free agency or trades.
However, the Cowboys also have several key players who are due for contract extensions, including Tyler Smith. Prioritizing these extensions may influence their decision-making regarding Mazi Smith and other players on their roster.
The Clock is Ticking
As the NFL season progresses, the pressure mounts on teams to make decisions about their rosters. The trade deadline looms, and the Cowboys must decide whether Mazi Smith is part of their long-term plans.
If Smith remains inactive or continues to underperform, the Cowboys may be more inclined to explore a trade. The Detroit Lions, with their need for defensive line depth and their willingness to take a chance on potential, could be the perfect landing spot for the former first-round pick.
Conclusion
The future of Mazi Smith in Dallas remains uncertain. While he possesses the physical tools to be a successful NFL player, his fit with the Cowboys and his lack of consistent performance have raised questions.
A trade to the Detroit Lions could provide Smith with a fresh start and an opportunity to unlock his potential. For the Lions, it would be a low-risk move with the potential for a significant reward. As the season unfolds, keep an eye on this developing situation, as the Cowboys may indeed cut ties with Mazi Smith, and the Lions could be waiting to pounce.