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The Miami Dolphins are still searching for their first win of the season, and their 0-5 start has already made them part of an unfortunate 28-year NFL history. Meanwhile, the Dolphins have made headlines for another reason this time, releasing defensive tackle Mazi Smith from their practice squad.
NFL insider Ari Meirov reported that the Miami team has decided to move on from Smith, a former first-round selection of the Dallas Cowboys.
“The Dolphins have released DT Mazi Smith, the former Cowboys first-round pick, who had been on Miami’s practice squad,” Meirov wrote.
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Smith joined Miami after his stint in Dallas but will now have to explore other opportunities to continue his NFL career.
Smith’s release marks another development in a career that began with considerable expectations. The Cowboys selected him with the No. 26 overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, hoping he would develop into a dependable presence on their defensive line and strengthen their interior defense.
However, Smith struggled to establish himself as a long-term fixture in Dallas’ defensive plans. After spending two and a half years with the Cowboys, he was traded to the New York Jets last season in search of a fresh opportunity.
Smith subsequently landed on Miami’s practice squad, giving him another chance to remain in the league and potentially work his way back into an active roster role. However, his stint with the Dolphins has now come to an end.
Across his time with all three franchises, Smith has appeared in 43 games, recording 57 tackles, six quarterback hits, and two sacks.
However, Smith’s release does not necessarily signal the end of his NFL career. As a former first-round pick with experience across multiple teams, he could still draw interest from franchises seeking additional depth along their defensive interior.
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