Michigan DL reportedly on Top-30 visit list with Bears |
The Chicago Bears are known for their strong defense in their storied past, and they are looking to continue that tradition in the upcoming NFL draft.
One player who has caught their eye is Michigan defensive lineman Mazi Smith. Smith has been making the rounds with various NFL teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Bears themselves. Despite his somewhat modest statistics, Smith has garnered attention for his size and athleticism. At 6-3 and 323 pounds, he has the raw physical tools to make an impact on the defensive line. Smith was an All-Big Ten selection in both 2021 and 2022, earning consensus first-team honors last season. In 2022, he had 49 tackles, including a sack, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. While those numbers may not be eye-popping, he has demonstrated an ability to disrupt plays and clog up running lanes. He has also shown flashes of pass-rushing potential, although he will need to refine his technique at the next level. While he has the tools to be a solid player, he is not yet a finished product. However, if the team believes in their coaches' ability to develop young talent, then Smith could be a valuable addition to their defensive front. The latest projections have him going in the fourth round as the No. 6 rated defensive tackle. It will be fascinating to see how Smith's draft stock shakes out over the next few weeks and whether he lands with the Bears or another team. #Michigan DL Mazi Smith is on a Top 30 visit today with the #Bills today, source said. He's had over 20 meetings or visits with teams, including the #Chiefs and #Steelers meeting with him at Michigan. Among others: #Bears, #Eagles, #Cowboys, #AZCardinals, and #Saints.
