Mazi Smith health update: Cowboys 2023 first-rounder returning to team

Dallas Cowboys 2023 first-rounder Mazi Smith suffered a minor health scare that kept him from traveling to Las Vegas with the team.

October 8, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith (58) after the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. / Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys 2023 first-rounder Mazi Smith is still trying to find his footing in the NFL, but he suffered another setback over the weekend and was unable to travel with the team.

Now, we know the reason for his absence.

According to David Moore of the Dallas Morning News, Smith was dealing with an allergic reaction.

MORE: Mazi Smith discusses his feelings on Jordan Phillips addition

However, he is set to return to the practice field today.

"Mazi Smith is feeling better & will take part in today’s practice," Moore wrote. "The Cowboys DT did not travel to Las Vegas for Saturday’s game due to an allergic reaction on the team bus before departing for the airport.

"It was a food allergy, 2 people w/ knowledge of his status said."

Mazi Smith is slated to be the starting nose tackle in his second season. A first-round pick in 2023, Smith was underwhelming as a rookie. He showed growth in the preseason opener but behind him, there's no trusted depth. Ideally, the 6-foot-6, 341-pound Phillips will occupy that role while being a mentor for Smith.

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