Overview
- Mazi Smith was waived by the New York Jets on Saturday as the team completed its roster cutdown, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
- The Jets’ interior defensive line has been reshaped this offseason with veterans David Onyemata, T’Vondre Sweat and Harrison Phillips occupying the top roles while Jowon Briggs and rookie Darrell Jackson Jr. provide depth.
- Analytics and limited play have dogged Smith since he was a 2023 first‑round pick, with Pro Football Focus showing low grades and NFL snap counts that undercut his case for a roster spot.
- Smith’s recent injuries reduced his chance to prove himself in the preseason, and any team that claims him off waivers would assume his $2.56 million base salary.
- If Smith clears waivers he is likely to reach free agency or be considered for the Jets’ practice squad, while the release creates no immediate cap savings for New York and costs the club $2.56 million in dead money.