Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Mazi Smith. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Eagles get 'freaky' in latest mock draft

By Bruce Ewing | Last updated 3/8/23

According to a recent mock draft from USA Today’s Nate Davis, Philadelphia will fill a massive need with a massive defensive tackle with the 30th overall pick. His name is Mazi Smith, who played for Michigan and is an absolute freak.

Prior to the 2022 season, Bruce Feldman of The Athletic put Mazi at the top of his annual College Football Freaks List. According to Feldman, “The 6-foot-3, 337-pound senior has rare power and agility. So rare, in fact, it’s hard to find the right superlative to begin with.”

That’s high praise, but Michigan director of strength and conditioning Ben Herbert went even further, calling Smith the strongest defensive lineman he’s seen in 25 years of football, per Feldman. With the Wolverines, Smith could bench 22 reps of 325 pounds with a close-grip press of 550 pounds.

Michigan DT Mazi Smith doing a reactive plyo stairs test in 2.82 seconds ⏱

Aidan Hutchinson, who’s 60lbs lighter, did it in 2.57 seconds.

(via @UMichFootball)pic.twitter.com/7b1fqvoKPF
— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 10, 2022

To the surprise of no one, Smith led all defensive lineman at the scouting combine with 34 reps of 225 pounds. He chose not to participate in any drills, which means teams will have to wait for his pro day to see his incredible speed.

Smith’s reported 4.41 shuttle time would have matched any tackle at the 2022 combine and he runs the 40-yard dash in 4.85 seconds. The Eagles could use a player with Smith’s size, speed and strength, especially with six free agents on the defensive line.

Pro Football Focus named Smith as the fifth-best lineman in this year’s draft. If Philadelphia drafts a cornerback or offensive lineman early, Smith would look good playing alongside fellow freak Jordan Davis in 2023.

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