Packers and Cowboys Agree to Trade Former First-Round Defensive Tackle, Pending Physical, per source

Green Bay, WI – September 5, 2025

The Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys have reached a trade agreement that will send a former first-round pick to Green Bay. The deal, however, remains pending medical evaluations and a routine physical.

The move caps off weeks of speculation surrounding Dallas’ willingness to part ways with one of their younger defensive linemen. After a disappointing start to his career and the Cowboys’ recent decision to trade superstar pass rusher Micah Parsons to Green Bay, front-office executives began to quietly shop another piece of their defensive front.

That piece is Mazi Smith, the 2023 first-rounder drafted 26th overall out of Michigan. Once touted as a cornerstone of Dallas’ defensive future, he never fully blossomed in the Lone Star State. Two seasons in, he has flashed potential but hasn’t cemented himself as a long-term starter.

“We think a fresh start in Green Bay is what he needs,” a Packers front office source said. “Our defense thrives on depth and versatility, and he’ll have a chance to grow behind the best in the game.”

Packers and Cowboys Agree to Trade Former First-Round Defensive Tackle Mazi Smith 

— Adam Schetfer 

Smith’s rookie year saw him play all 17 games, starting three, with 13 tackles and a sack. His second season under then-DC Mike Zimmer was more productive, with 41 tackles, four for loss, three QB hits, and another sack. Still, with yet another coordinator shift to Matt Eberflus, his role became uncertain.

The Packers see opportunity where Dallas saw stagnation. Anchored by Rashan Gary and Micah Parsons, Green Bay has needed more interior depth. Smith’s size—6-foot-3, 337 pounds—combined with his athletic profile makes him an intriguing fit in Jeff Hafley’s rotating fronts.

Financially, the deal is low risk for Green Bay. Smith carries a $3.62 million cap hit in 2025 and remains under team control through his fifth-year option. Sources say the Cowboys will receive a 2026 fifth-round pick in exchange, a modest return for a former first-rounder.

For now, all eyes turn to the medical and physical. If he clears, Smith is expected to join his new team in Green Bay, where final paperwork will make the trade official. Once complete, the Packers will add yet another powerful body to their quest for sustained dominance in the NFC.

Stay tuned to ESPN!