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4 Cowboys Whose Exits Would Be Addition by Subtraction This Offseason

If the Dallas Cowboys want to compete for a playoff spot in 2025, Jerry Jones must consider getting rid of these four players this offseason.

By Devon Platana

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones before the game against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones before the game against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium. / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
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3. Mazi Smith, DT

After a disappointing rookie campaign, all eyes were on Mazi Smith to see if he'd bounce back in Year 2. His outlook appeared promising as he spent the offseason re-gaining some much-needed weight while defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer's arrival was supposed to help take the 23-year-old's game to the next level.

Smith showed glimpses of promise at times throughout the 2024 season but couldn't string consistent performances together. Although he set new career-highs in solo tackles (22) while starting in all 17 games, he finished the year as one of Pro Football Focus' worst-graded interior defenders in terms of:

  • Overall defense: 34.8 (125/126)
  • Run defense: 35.9 (130/140)
  • Pass rush: 49.6 (97/101)

Even though he's only entering Year 3, it's tough to feel confident in Smith's trajectory. The former Michigan Wolverine isn't living up to the first-round hype and it's hard to imagine things getting better as he'll have to deal with a new coach next season.

Having said that, the Cowboys should consider trading Smith this offseason. Things aren't working out for the 6-foot-3 defender in the Lone Star State, and Dallas can save up to $1.9 million if they trade him before the 2025 campaign begins.

If the Cowboys can get any draft capital back for his services (especially on Day 2), moving Smith could be beneficial in the long run.

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