Jets Waive Defensive Tackle Mazi Smith Ahead of Roster Cuts
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The New York Jets are releasing defensive tackle Mazi Smith before roster cuts. ESPN reported this major transaction on Saturday morning. Smith entered the league as a first round draft choice selected by the Dallas Cowboys in twenty twenty three out of Michigan. He arrived in New York last season during a notable player trade involving Quinnen Williams. During his short time with the team, Smith struggled to secure playing time behind veteran additions like David Onyemata and T Vondre Sweat. Earlier this spring, team executives officially declined the fifth year option on his rookie contract. As professional football franchises trim active rosters to fifty three players, Smith hits the waiver wire. Other league organizations now hold the opportunity to claim his remaining agreement. The former college standout faces an uncertain professional career path while awaiting potential interest from competing professional football organizations across the United States sports league landscape.
Timeline
- On April 27, 2023: Dallas Cowboys selected defensive tackle Mazi Smith in first round.
- On November 4, 2025: Cowboys traded defensive tackle Mazi Smith to New York Jets.
- On November 4, 2025: Quinnen Williams moved permanently to Dallas in blockbuster player transaction.
- On April 29, 2026: New York Jets officially declined rookie contract fifth year option.
- On August 29, 2026: Mazi Smith played during preseason game against New York Giants.
- On August 30, 2026: ESPN reported Jets releasing defensive tackle Mazi Smith today morning.
- On August 30, 2026: Franchise submitted roster cuts ahead of league deadline today morning.
- On August 30, 2026: Player currently sits available on official NFL waiver wire market.
- On August 31, 2026: Competing NFL teams evaluate waiver claims for defensive tackle player.
- On September 1, 2026: Unclaimed player explores potential practice squad opportunities across football league.
Sources
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