Micah Parsons has nothing but praise for Mazi Smith

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons had heavy praise for the team’s first-round pick and defensive tackle Mazi Smith.

The Dallas Cowboys held the 26th overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, and there was a variety of directions the team could go in terms of which player to pick. With the top wide receivers, running back Bijan Robinson and Utah tight end Dalton Kincaid off the board, the Cowboys opted to use their selection on Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith. The pick wasn’t necessarily the most popular by those in the fanbase, but Smith filled a need, and he possesses incredible athleticism for a lineman that stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 323 pounds.

In case Cowboys fans needed more convincing, take linebacker Micah Parson’s word for it. While speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Parsons detailed why “you got to give him attention,” citing his power and strength.

Micah Parson praises Cowboys first-round pick Mazi Smith

Parsons has been a huge fan of Smith’s. During an appearance on Bleacher Report’s NFL Draft watch-along, Parsons yelled with joy when the pick was made. In fact, Parsons showed a text message he sent to Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, letting him know that he wanted Smith on the team. Not to mention, Parsons gleefully screamed, “no more QB sneaks!” That is obviously directed toward the Philadelphia Eagles, who used that play with Jalen Hurts that was nearly unstoppable last season.

Given Philadelphia’s stout offensive line remains relatively intact and with Hurts’ ability to run the ball up the middle, teams have to bolster their interior defensive line, especially those in the NFC East. Dallas did just that by adding Smith to the fold.

Last season with the Wolverines, Smith recorded 48 total tackles (23 solo, 25 assisted), 2.5 tackles, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and 0.5 sacks. According to Pro Football Focus, Smith had 19 quarterback hurries and five quarterback hits in 393 pass rush snaps.

Smith can certainly help the Cowboys stop opposing running games. Not to mention, Smith’s ability can help Parsons tally up even more sacks during upcoming seasons.