Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Mazi Smith has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor weapons possession charge. This was from an incident that happened in Ann Arbor, Michigan back on October 7th. Smith agreed to the plea deal agreement which dropped his felony weapon charges dropped. He was pulled over for speeding in Ann Arbor when the pistol was discovered. Smith owns the weapon legally but did not have a concealed pistol license. According to his defense attorney John Shea, Smith was in the process of applying for the proper permit. Michigan is expected to keep Smith on the team.
Mazi Smith pleads guilty to misdemeanor gun charge after Ann Arbor traffic stop https://t.co/mgM80SS3WE pic.twitter.com/x9B7Z9Th5r
— FOX 2 Detroit (@FOX2News) December 9, 2022
When asked about the decision to not suspend Mazi Smith, Athletic Director Warde Manuel was quoted saying the following in a statement: “He is not and never has been considered a threat to the university or community, based on the information communicated to us, we will continue to allow the judicial process to play out. Mazi will continue to participate as a member of the team.” Smith’s sentencing is scheduled for December 29th which is two days before the team’s College Football Playoffs semifinals matchup against the TCU Horned Frogs in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.
This season with the Michigan Wolverines, Mazi Smith has recorded 22 solo tackles, 46 total tackles, and one sack on the season. He is a key starter on the team’s defensive line and will be vital for the team if they hope to advance to the National Championship to end the year.
