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Cowboys First-Round Pick Labeled "Worst in 5 Years" After OTAs

Dallas, TX – June 27, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are facing scrutiny over their 2023 first-round selection, Mazi Smith, after a disappointing offseason performance during Organized Team Activities (OTAs). The defensive tackle, drafted 26th overall with a four-year, $13.27 million contract, has been branded the team’s “worst first-round pick in five years” by Bleacher Report analyst Matt Holder, a label gaining traction following the recent OTA sessions.

Smith’s struggles have been evident since his rookie year, where he managed just 13 tackles and 1.0 sack in 17 games. His 2024 season showed slight improvement with 41 tackles, 1.0 sack, and 4 tackles for loss, but his Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 34.7—207th out of 219 eligible defensive tackles—paints a grim picture. The Cowboys’ interior defensive line, ranked 30th in run defense (48.0 PFF grade), has suffered due to his inability to anchor against the run, a key reason for his draft selection.

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OTAs, which concluded this week, amplified concerns. Coaches and analysts noted Smith’s lack of progress in technique and conditioning, especially against a revamped offensive line featuring rookie Tyler Guyton. “He’s not showing the fight we need,” an NFC scout told The Athletic. Holder’s assessment, published June 26, singled out Smith’s ongoing inconsistency, suggesting even Guyton’s rookie struggles might overshadow him.

The backlash intensified on social media, with #MaziSmith trending as fans voiced frustration. Smith’s physical gifts—6-foot-3, 337 pounds, and a No. 1 ranking on The Athletic’s 2022 “Freaks” list—once promised a dominant force, but his failure to translate college success (49 tackles at Michigan in 2022) into NFL impact has fueled criticism. NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein had warned of an overdraft, comparing him to Dontari Poe but noting Day 2 potential, a prophecy now haunting the Cowboys.

With minicamp looming and training camp set for late July, Smith’s roster spot is under threat. The addition of Solomon Thomas in free agency and competition from rookies like Jay Toia add pressure. “If he doesn’t step up soon, a trade or cut could be on the table,” Cowboys Wire speculated. With two years left on his deal, the $13 million investment hangs in the balance.

As the Cowboys aim for a Super Bowl push, Smith’s OTA performance has reignited debates about draft missteps. Unless he turns it around, the “worst pick” label may stick, marking a challenging chapter for Dallas’ defensive line

Owner David Tepper Admits He Lacks the Competence to Run Football Operations
Can you believe it? David Tepper, the "notorious" owner of the Carolina Panthers, has finally "confessed" a truth that team fans have been waiting for years: He doesn't have enough ability to handle everything himself! But hold on, this isn't a "disaster" – it's a "positive twist" that's saving the Panthers! Is Tepper "letting go" to let the team soar? Read now to uncover the "secret" behind this shocking statement! David Tepper, the billionaire famous for his "deep interference" style in the Carolina Panthers, has undergone an astonishing positive change in ownership. Instead of "micromanaging" every decision like before, Tepper is now less involved, allowing football operations to run independently under the guidance of experts. The result? The team is achieving stability and success beyond expectations, currently tied for first in the NFC South with potential to return to the playoffs after many "sinking" seasons! At the annual charity event Joy to the Carolinas on December 9, 2025, Tepper expressed confidence in the organization's new direction, implicitly admitting that he's not a "superhero" who can run everything himself. He said: "It's not bad at all. It's pretty good; it's all just building blocks, and we'll see where we go. We'll see what happens. We think, as I've said, Dave Canales, Dan Morgan, Brandt Tilis, and everyone in the organization, we're building something special in Carolina. And we've built it outside the community. We're building it on the field, so that's the overall picture. Hopefully, we can continue and have that for many years. That's what we're looking for." This "confession" is actually a wise acknowledgment: Tepper recognizes past mistakes when pushing for quick results, leading to a series of disastrous failures like continuous coach firings and poor draft choices. Now, he supports his professional picks – like head coach Dave Canales, general manager Dan Morgan, and vice president Brandt Tilis – without "interfering." Instead, Tepper focuses on infrastructure (like stadium upgrades) and community efforts, transforming himself from a "demanding boss" to a "silent supporter"! The Panthers are exceeding expectations at the end of the season, with solid gameplay and higher team spirit than ever. Optimism is spreading without the "must-win now" pressure – something that once caused the team to "break apart" under old Tepper. Fans, after years of "disappointment," now appreciate Tepper's enthusiasm and improved role as a true asset. Many fans on social media comment: "Finally, Tepper knows to 'let go' – and the Panthers are soaring because of it!" Some even predict that if this approach is maintained, the Panthers could become the "big boss" of the NFC South for many years to come. But is this "admission" a sign that Tepper is about to sell the team? Or just a "ploy" to appease fans? The Panthers ownership scandal is "hotter than ever" – and Tepper's words could change the team's history! What do you think, is Tepper really "incompetent" or is he "playing fair"? Comment now and follow for the next NFL "drama"!