According to court documents, Michigan Wolverines starting defensive tackle Mazi Smith is facing felony weapon charges. The charges stem from him carrying a concealed weapon. The offense allegedly occurred on October 7th, but charges were not filed until November 30th. They were filed in the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor, Michigan and Smith could be facing serious punishment if convicted. If he is convicted of the charges they are punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. Michigan has not commented on the situation at this time.
Court records: Michigan football star Mazi Smith facing felony weapon charge https://t.co/PoIZhfzlen
— Detroit Free Press (@freep) December 1, 2022
This season with the Michigan Wolverines, Mazi Smith has recorded 21 solo tackles, 44 total tackles, and one sack. He has started every game this season for the team and has been a vital part of the defensive line. It is unclear why it took nearly two months for charges to be filed after the incident. The senior defensive lineman is being represented by attorney John Shea in the case.
Michigan is set to play the Purdue Boilermakers on Saturday in the Big Ten Championship and should be making the 2022-23 College Football Payoffs as well. Mazi Smith is also highly-rated as a 2023 NFL Draft prospect at the moment. The legal process will have to play out before more can be determined about his future.
