Matt Eberflus says former Cowboys first-rounder is still in evaluation process

Dallas Cowboys' first-year defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus shares where the new coaching staff currently stands with a former first-round pick.

Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith wears a Guardian helmet cap during training camp at the River Ridge Fields. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys coaching staff met with the media on Monday, following this past weekend's preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams.

The preseason opener did not go according to plan as the Cowboys looked undisciplined on both sides of the ball from the opening kick.

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New defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus answered a few questions about the future of the defense on Monday. Including where he sees former first-round pick, Mazi Smith, fitting into his scheme.

Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus during training camp at the River Ridge Fields. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Eberflus revealed that the staff is still in the evaluation process when it comes to Smith. The new Cowboys defensive coordinator said nothing is set in stone, but he sees Smith as "an attack front" guy.

The Cowboys were hoping that Smith would live up to his potential in his Sophomore season this past year. However, the team is still waiting on the So-called potential to blossom.

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If Smith cannot find his place on the team's defensive line, then it could be 2025 seventh-round pick Jay Toia who is tasked with clogging up the running lanes.

There's still some time for the defense to figure things out before Week 1, and it starts with their matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. Roster decisions will quickly be happening after Saturday, and Smith's playing future will be more clear as time moves on.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young looks to pass as Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith. | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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