Jay Toia (UCLA) and Tommy Akingbesote (Maryland) Compete for $13 Million Star's Defensive Tackle Spot

Dallas, TX – May 16, 2025

Two Dallas Cowboys rookies, Jay Toia from UCLA and Tommy Akingbesote from Maryland, are emerging as potential contenders to replace Mazi Smith, the team’s 2023 first-round pick with a $13.2 million contract, at the defensive tackle position, according to ESPN sources.

Mazi Smith, selected 26th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, is under significant pressure after two disappointing seasons. In 2024, Smith posted a dismal 34.7 PFF overall grade, ranking 207th out of 219 eligible defensive tackles in the NFL. He recorded 41 tackles, 1.0 sack, and 4 tackles for loss across 17 starts but failed to force or recover any fumbles. This lackluster performance has put his spot in the starting lineup in jeopardy, especially after the Cowboys signed Solomon Thomas in free agency and drafted two defensive tackles in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft: Jay Toia (pick 217) and Tommy Akingbesote (pick 247).

Jay Toia, standing at 6-foot-2 (1.88m) and weighing 342 pounds (155kg), is a run-stopping powerhouse. At UCLA, he played in 50 games, amassing 91 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 3.0 sacks, helping the Bruins’ run defense rank 6th nationally in 2024. Toia excels in strength and absorbing double-teams, creating opportunities for his teammates. “Run-stopping is my biggest strength,” Toia said after being drafted by the Cowboys.

Meanwhile, Tommy Akingbesote, at 6-foot-4 (1.93m) and 306 pounds (139kg), brings versatility and explosiveness from his basketball background. At Maryland, he recorded 32 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and 1.0 sack in the 2024 season. Akingbesote is known for his power and aggressive play style. “I bring toughness every time I step on the field,” he declared after joining the Cowboys.

Currently, the Cowboys’ run defense ranks 30th in the NFL with a PFF grade of 48.0. Defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton has been tasked with developing Toia and Akingbesote, who are expected to add toughness to the team’s interior line. Beyond Smith, the two rookies will also compete with players like Osa Odighizuwa, Solomon Thomas, and Justin Rogers for playing time.

If Mazi Smith fails to improve in the 2025 season, the Cowboys may trade or release him, paving the way for one of these young rookies to claim a starting role. With determination and thorough preparation, Toia and Akingbesote are poised to prove they can replace a $13 million star and bolster the Cowboys’ defense in the upcoming season.