Jets Defensive Lineman Quietly on Thin Ice in April

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The New York Jets made several defensive line additions in free agency, raising questions about the future of 2023 first-round pick Mazi Smith. After struggling to make an impact in his first season with the Jets, Smith's roster spot is now in jeopardy as the team evaluates options ahead of the draft.

Why it matters

The Jets' defensive line was a weak spot in 2025, so the team has been aggressive in addressing the position through free agency. Smith, acquired in a trade with the Cowboys, has yet to live up to his draft pedigree, and his future with the team is now uncertain as the Jets consider further upgrades at defensive tackle.

The details

Smith, a former first-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in 2023, was acquired by the Jets in a trade that also netted them valuable draft capital. However, the 24-year-old defensive tackle has struggled to make an impact, playing in only 3 games for the Jets last season and failing to record a single tackle, tackle for loss, or sack. His low grades on Pro Football Focus also did not help his case. With the Jets signing several veteran defensive linemen in free agency, Smith's roster spot is now in jeopardy as the team evaluates options ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

• In the 2023 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected Mazi Smith in the first round.
• Last season, Smith appeared in only 3 games for the Jets after being acquired in a trade.
• The Jets have 9 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place later this month.
• Smith's contract option for 2027 carries a $13.9 million cap hit, which the Jets may choose not to pick up.

What’s next

The Jets have to decide by May whether to pick up Mazi Smith's $13.9 million club option for the 2027 season. Based on his performance last year, the team may choose not to exercise that option.