Mazi Smith has made his Draft decision, and will not be returning to Ann Arbor, according to reports. Per Adam Schefter, the Michigan DT will enter the 2023 Draft.

It’s disappointing news for Michigan, as Smith has been instrumental to the team. The DT is credited as the leader of the stealthy Michigan defense that defeated Ohio State before going on to win the B1G.

Smith, a team captain, is a three-time letter winner and was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year for 2022. This season, Smith had his most productive year to date with 48 tackles, 2.5 TFL and 0.5 sacks.

It wasn’t always smooth sailing for Smith, as he faced felony gun charges stemming from a traffic stop in October. Due to the context of the charges, Smith was allowed to continue the season with the team.

As part of a plea deal, Smith pled guilty to attempted possession of a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle, a misdemeanor. Sentencing was delayed until after the National Championship.