If the Cowboys are to make a trade, it would come as no surprise if a defensive addition were to be made. Dallas could also subtract on that side of the ball. 
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The Cowboys “appear to be open to” dealing away Mazi Smith, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. The former first-rounder’s inability to develop into a regular contributor has been a key element of Dallas’ struggles along the defensive line since his arrival in the NFL. Smith has been inactive three times in 2025, his third campaign in the league.
As a rookie, the Michigan product logged a rotational role. A significant uptick in usage took place the following year, but Smith was unable to take a step forward in terms of production against the pass. His performances as a run defender also left plenty to be desired, and as such it came as no surprise upgrading along the defensive interior was a central factor in the Cowboys’ considerations with respect to the Micah Parsons trade.
Kenny Clark is in the fold thanks to that blockbuster deal, and his contract runs through 2027. Dallas also has Osa Odighizuwa in place for years to come after he inked a four-year, $80MM deal to remain with the team this past offseason. Especially with Smith failing to find his footing in new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus‘ scheme, a fresh start could be sought out. Smith’s rookie contract runs through 2026, and any acquiring team would presumably decline his fifth-year option this spring.
It would be surprising to see a strong market for Smith given the way his career has begun. At the age of 24, though, interested teams could view him as a buy-low target with upside. As the Cowboys look into adding along the front seven (among other spots), a shake-up of a different nature will be something to watch for.