Mazi Smith was a healthy scratch in the Cowboys’ opener with Philadelphia, and Jerry Jones hinted the trend could persist. Dallas stressed earning continued opportunities, not entitlement, as Schottenheimer echoed the need for consistency from Smith. The club has flirted with veteran help like Jadeveon Clowney, while Trevon Diggs’ looming return could sharpen a defense Kansas City, Week 2 against the Giants will reveal how the DT rotation shakes out for fantasy angles.

Fantasy managers should monitor practice reports and the game-day plan for Smith, as the inactive status could limit immediate upside but also signal a measured, long-view path for a first-round talent. Clowney’s potential addition and Diggs’ health could shift how the Cowboys allocate sacks, run-stopping snaps, and overall defensive production in a crucial early-season spot.