NFL analysts had talked about the upside of former Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith, his “freak” strength and skill, but most had him projected as a second-round pick.
Smith, however, was selected in the first round, No. 26 overall, by the Dallas Cowboys during the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday. Michigan has had at least one player taken in the first round in each of the last five drafts.
“They told me that my job first and foremost is to be that elite run defender that they need in the middle of their defense," Smith told reporters Thursday night, according to the Dallas Morning News, adding he wants to improve his pass-rush skills.